<P> In its present format , the UEFA Champions League begins in mid-July with three knockout qualifying rounds and a play - off round . The 10 surviving teams enter the group stage , joining 22 other teams qualified in advance . The 32 teams are drawn into eight groups of four teams and play each other in a double round - robin system . The eight group winners and eight runners - up proceed to the knockout phase that culminates with the final match in May . The winner of the UEFA Champions League qualifies for the UEFA Super Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup . </P>
<P> In its present format , the UEFA Champions League begins in mid-July with three knockout qualifying rounds and a play - off round . The 10 surviving teams enter the group stage , joining 22 other teams qualified in advance . The 32 teams are drawn into eight groups of four teams and play each other in a double round - robin system . The eight group winners and eight runners - up proceed to the knockout phase that culminates with the final match in May . The winner of the UEFA Champions League qualifies for the UEFA Super Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup . </P>
how many teams can play in champions league
how many teams can play in champions league
32 teams
32 teams