European football not only has the Champions League and Europa League, but also a new tournament introduced by UEFA from the 2021/22 season: the UEFA Europa Conference League, commonly known as the C3 Cup. This is the third-tier club tournament in the European football system, for teams whose achievements are not enough to participate in the Champions League or Europa League. Although it is new, the C3 Cup has quickly become for clubs from lower-ranked football backgrounds. Let’s find out more about this exciting football tournament with TA777!
Overview of the UEFA Europa Conference League
Definition of the UEFA Europa Conference League (UECL)
The UEFA Europa Conference League, or UEFA Europa Conference League (UECL), is an annual competition organized by the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) for clubs that do not qualify for the UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League. This is the third-tier tournament in the European league system, established from the 2021/22 season to expand the competition opportunities for many teams from countries with lower UEFA rankings.
The UECL helps teams with fewer opportunities to participate in continental tournaments to compete against stronger opponents, gain experience, and improve the quality of competition.
Why did UEFA create this tournament?
UEFA decided to establish the UEFA Europa League for the following reasons:
- Create opportunities for more teams: Previously, teams from small football backgrounds were often eliminated early in the qualifying rounds of the Champions League and Europa League. The UEFA Europa Conference League allows them to advance further in a continental tournament.
- Increased competitiveness: The appearance of the UECL means that the UEFA Champions League is no longer too crowded, thereby improving the quality and competitiveness of both tournaments.
- Generate revenue for small clubs: Participating in a European tournament not only helps teams compete with stronger opponents but also brings financial revenue from television rights, prize money, and advertising.
History and development of the C3 Cup
The UEFA Europa Conference League was officially announced in 2018 and will start from the 2021/22 season. This is the first time UEFA has had a third-tier club competition, after the Cup Winners’ Cup was merged into the UEFA Cup (now the Europa League) in 1999.
- First season (2021/22): José Mourinho’s AS Roma were the first team to win the tournament, beating Feyenoord 1-0 in the final.
- 2022/23: West Ham United continued their winning streak by beating Fiorentina 2-1.
- 2023/24: Olympiacos became champions after beating Fiorentina 1-0 in the final.
Despite only three seasons, the UEFA Europa Conference League has proven its appeal, especially to mid-table clubs in Europe.
The Value and Importance of the UEFA Cup
An Opportunity for Mid-Range Teams
Previously, many teams were unable to compete in the Champions League or Europa League. The UEFA Europa Conference League allows them to compete in Europe, thereby developing their expertise and enhancing their brand.
Increasing Commercial and Financial Value
Although not as prestigious as the two higher-level tournaments, the UEFA Cup still brings in a large amount of revenue for clubs through:
- Prizes from UEFA
- Television rights
- Ticket sales and sponsorships
Helping young players shine
Many teams use the UEFA Cup as an opportunity to test young players, giving them the chance to compete internationally and develop their skills.
