Shakhtar Donetsk negotiates use of Stamford Bridge for Champions League

Shakhtar Donetsk is in advanced negotiations with Chelsea FC to use Stamford Bridge as its home venue for upcoming UEFA Champions League fixtures. The Ukrainian club has been unable to play at its Donbas Arena since 2014 due to the conflict in the Donetsk region, previously hosting European matches in countries such as Germany, Slovenia, and Poland.

Stamford Bridge has emerged as the preferred option due to its capacity of approximately 40,000 spectators, which is larger than other London venues considered, such as Fulham’s Craven Cottage and Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium. The move is supported by the strong relationship between the two clubs, bolstered by the 2023 transfer of Mykhailo Mudryk and the Game4Ukraine charity initiative.

Because Chelsea did not qualify for European competitions this season, the stadium is available for Shakhtar’s schedule. A final agreement remains subject to documentation, security, and logistics, as well as necessary approvals from UEFA and the local Hammersmith and Fulham council. Utilizing London would also place the club closer to the significant Ukrainian diaspora living in the United Kingdom.