Gulf Club Champions League 2025–26: New Format and Draw Details

The Arab Gulf Cup Football Federation (AGCFF) has officially unveiled the structure for the 2025–26 Gulf Club Champions League, marking the tournament's 32nd edition. Scheduled from September 30, 2025, to April 14, 2026, this season promises heightened competition and regional pride.

Tournament Overview

The Gulf Club Champions League is a premier football competition featuring top clubs from the eight member nations of the AGCFF. The 2025–26 season will see eight elite teams vying for the coveted title. Notably, defending champions Duhok SC will not participate this year, having failed to qualify. The tournament will follow a two-group format, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the semi-finals. All matches will be played on a home-and-away basis.

Tournament Dates

  • Group Stage: September 30, 2025 – December 15, 2025

  • Knockout Stage: January 2026 – April 14, 2026

Group Stage Draw

The official draw took place on August 11, 2025, in Doha, Qatar. Teams were allocated into two groups based on the FIFA World Rankings of their respective nations.

Group A:

  • Al Ain (UAE)

  • Zakho (Iraq)

  • Sitra (Bahrain)

  • Al Qadsia (Kuwait)

Group B:

  • Al Rayyan (Qatar)

  • Al Shabab (Saudi Arabia)

  • Al Nahda (Oman)

  • Al Tadamun Hadramaut (Yemen)

Each group will consist of four teams, with the top two from each group progressing to the semi-finals.

Prize Money and Awards

The AGCFF has emphasized the tournament's prestige by offering substantial financial rewards:

  • Champion: $3,000,000

  • Runner-up: $1,000,000

  • Individual Awards: $50,000 each for Best Player, Top Scorer, and Best Goalkeeper

What to Expect This Season

With the return of historically successful clubs and the introduction of new talents, the 2025–26 season is set to deliver thrilling matches and unforgettable moments. Fans can look forward to intense rivalries, strategic gameplay, and the unifying spirit of Gulf football.

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