A significant push is underway to fundamentally redesign the qualification process for major European international tournaments. Key football authorities argue the current system has lost its competitive edge and fails to captivate fans, prompting a search for more engaging formats.
The core issue is the perceived lack of drama in the existing group stage model. With tournaments expanding to include more teams, the path to qualification has become a predictable formality for Europe’s footballing powerhouses, diminishing viewer and broadcaster interest. There is a broad consensus that a structural refresh is urgently needed to restore excitement.
Among the leading concepts being explored is a shift towards a single-league “Swiss system” format, inspired by European club competitions. This model would see nations face a wider variety of opponents in a single, large standings table, rather than playing the same few teams home and away. The goal is to ensure top nations regularly face high-calibre opposition, injecting greater stakes into every match.
An alternative proposal involves granting the UEFA Nations League, which has proven popular since its introduction, a more decisive role in determining which teams reach the final tournament. This would formalise the competition’s growing importance within the international calendar.
While changes are deemed inevitable for the long-term health of the sport, the traditional group format is expected to remain in place for the upcoming UEFA EURO 2028. Organisers have also confirmed that the controversial practice of dynamic pricing for match tickets, where costs fluctuate based on demand, will not be used for the tournament. Instead, a commitment has been made to ensure a substantial portion of tickets are priced at accessible levels for supporters.