The Champions League and Conference League draws have set the stage for Scottish clubs Hearts, Hibernian, and Motherwell. Hearts, as Scottish Premiership runners-up, enter the second qualifying round and will face either Turkish giants Fenerbahce or Austrian side Sturm Graz. The draw, held on June 17, 2026, also revealed that Hearts are unseeded and will take the more difficult league path.
Hearts' Potential Opponents
Hearts' path was narrowed after Aston Villa's fourth-place Premier League finish and Europa League win bumped Bodo/Glimt and Olympiacos to the third qualifying round. The Jambos now await either Fenerbahce or Sturm Graz. First legs are scheduled for July 21-22, with return legs on July 28-29.
Sturm Graz Stadium Update
Sturm Graz confirmed their Liebenau Stadium will be ready for the second qualifying round, despite ongoing refurbishments. The 16,364-capacity venue will host Hearts if drawn, avoiding a move to Klagenfurt.
Conference League Draw for Hibs and Motherwell
Hibernian and Motherwell also learned their Conference League opponents. Motherwell, who finished fourth, and Hibs, fifth, are both in the hat. The draw provides a chance for group-stage football.
Financial Implications for Hearts
Champions League qualification could be worth around £40 million to Hearts. Minimum prize money for reaching the league phase is £17.5 million, with each win worth £1.8 million and draws £600,000. Performance bonuses add further incentives.
Potential 'Data Derby'
If Hearts overcome their second-round opponent, they could face Union Saint-Gilloise in the third qualifying round. USG, also backed by Tony Bloom's Jamestown Analytics, creates a unique 'data derby' between the two data-driven clubs.
What Happens if Hearts Lose?
Defeat in the second qualifying round drops Hearts to the Europa League third qualifying round, where they are unseeded. Losing that sends them to the Conference League playoff round, where they may be seeded.
Key Dates
- Second qualifying round: July 21-22 (first leg), July 28-29 (second leg)
- Play-off round draw: June 17, 2026
- League phase: Matchday 1 (September 8-10), Matchday 2 (October 13-14), Matchday 3 (October 20-21), Matchday 4 (November 3-4), Matchday 5 (November 24-25), Matchday 6 (December 8-9), Matchday 7 (January 19-20), Matchday 8 (January 27)
Hearts' manager situation remains uncertain, with Steven Naismith linked to Rangers. New signings have arrived amid the turmoil, and the Tynecastle hierarchy is evaluating potential bosses through Jamestown Analytics.
