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Shakhtar Donetsk to Play Champions League Home Games at Stamford Bridge

Due to ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Shakhtar Donetsk will host their Champions League matches at Chelsea's Stamford Bridge this season.

21 August 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Shakhtar Donetsk to Play Champions League Home Games at Stamford Bridge — Photo: wonker · Flickr · BY

Ukrainian football club Shakhtar Donetsk has announced that Stamford Bridge will serve as their home ground for Champions League matches this season. This decision follows the club's inability to play at their original stadium due to the war in Ukraine, which has made it unsafe for games.

The club has not been able to host matches at home since 2014, when Russia annexed the Donetsk region, significantly impacting their ability to play in their home country. As a result, Shakhtar has sought an alternative venue to continue competing in European competitions.

Stamford Bridge, the historic stadium of Chelsea Football Club, was selected as the new venue where Shakhtar will play their matches as the home team in the prestigious European tournament. This marks a significant step for the club as it adapts to the challenges posed by the ongoing conflict.

Various sources have confirmed this arrangement, highlighting that Shakhtar's matches will attract attention not only from their supporters but also from local fans in London. Shakhtar will face their European opponents at this iconic stadium, despite Chelsea not qualifying for the current Champions League season.

This solution represents a broader trend where clubs affected by conflict or other crises seek venues abroad to ensure that they can compete on an international stage. Reports indicate that Shakhtar is looking forward to the unique challenges of the Champions League, even in an unfamiliar setting.

As the situation evolves, many will watch how Shakhtar's use of Stamford Bridge affects both their performance and engagement with local supporters. The club's arrangement for home matches underscores their resilience and commitment to competing at high levels, even in difficult circumstances.

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