Ukrainian champions FC Shakhtar Donetsk announced Friday that it will play its home fixtures in the 2026-27 UEFA Champions League league phase at Stamford Bridge in London.

The team announced in a statement that the move followed an agreement between the club’s management and Chelsea FC, the stadium’s owner, and is “subject to regulatory approvals.”

“Playing our home Champions League matches at Stamford Bridge is a special opportunity for Shakhtar. We are grateful to Chelsea Football Club for the opportunity to host our games at this special venue,” it said.

Describing Stamford Bridge as “one of the most famous stadiums in world football, with an incredible history and atmosphere,” the statement added that the club is convinced Shakhtar’s matches in London will provide “unforgettable emotions for Ukrainian and English fans.”

Chelsea FC also confirmed the move, expressing that they look forward to welcoming FC Shakhtar to London for their Champions League campaign.

“We will be working with the Shakhtar team closely over the coming weeks to ensure that matchdays run safely and smoothly for their team and supporters,” it said.

The West London club will be absent from European competitions this season after finishing 10th in the 2025-26 Premier League season.

Shakhtar, meanwhile, won its 16th Ukrainian Premier League title last season under the management of former Turkish international Arda Turan, who signed a two-year deal with the club last summer.

The Ukrainian champions have been unable to play in Donetsk since Russian-backed separatists took control of the city in 2014.

Shakhtar has since played its European home fixtures in several countries, including Germany and Poland, while hosting domestic matches in Kyiv and the western city of Lviv. (AA)

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