Temi Kings
FC Shakhtar Donetsk have officially secured Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge as their home venue for the 2026/27 UEFA Champions League season. Subject to final regulatory approvals, the agreement allows the displaced Ukrainian champions to host their European league phase fixtures in West London, providing a high-profile home base while taking advantage of London's large Ukrainian community.
The move continues a decade-long reality for Shakhtar Donetsk, who have been unable to play at their home venue, the Donbas Arena, since 2014. Over the past twelve years, the club has staged its domestic and European matches across multiple host sites in Ukraine, Poland, Slovenia, and Germany, including temporary stays at Hamburg's Volksparkstadion and Warsaw's Polish Army Stadium. Choosing Stamford Bridge came after evaluating several alternative London venues, including Brentford's Gtech Community Stadium.
The arrangement also creates a unique scenario for Stamford Bridge. Chelsea missed out on European qualification following a 10th-place Premier League finish last term. While new Blues manager Xabi Alonso prepares his team strictly for domestic action, Chelsea's home ground will still host European elite football. Shakhtar executives expressed immense gratitude to Chelsea FC, emphasizing that playing at one of football's most historic stadiums offers a special opportunity for Ukrainian players and supporters living abroad.