Shakhtar Donetsk will play their home Champions League matches at Stamford Bridge after reaching a temporary stadium-sharing agreement with Chelsea for the 2026-27 campaign.
Why Shakhtar cannot play in Donetsk
Shakhtar have been unable to use their home stadium, the Donbas Arena, since May 2014 because of the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. Since then, the team have used alternative venues including the Arena Lviv and the Metalist Stadium for domestic and European fixtures.
In August 2026, the Ukrainian club announced that it had negotiated a temporary relocation to Stamford Bridge for its Champions League fixtures.
How the deal was made possible
The arrangement was made possible mainly because Chelsea failed to qualify for any European competition this season after finishing 10th in the Premier League last term. With no continental fixtures to play, Stamford Bridge was free for midweek matches, avoiding scheduling conflicts between the two clubs.
Both clubs have stressed that the agreement is strictly non-commercial, describing it as a sign of European football solidarity. Shakhtar's leadership expressed gratitude for the chance to play at the venue, saying the collaboration would provide emotional experiences for displaced Ukrainian refugees and local English fans.
Duration and upcoming fixtures
The agreement will last for the duration of Shakhtar's Champions League campaign. Stamford Bridge will host at least four home matches during the eight-game league phase.
Shakhtar's first match at the ground is scheduled for Wednesday, October 14, against AEK Athens, with an 8pm kick-off. The club will also host Sporting CP on November 3, Fenerbahce on November 25, and Real Madrid on January 27.
