For decades, the end of August has marked the beginning of a new football season, with the Principality of Monaco traditionally serving as the epicenter of all the excitement. Since 1998, the football world has gathered at the Grimaldi Forum to witness the draws for Europe’s most prestigious competitions: the UEFA Champions League and the Europa League. This event is much more than just drawing balls from a pot—it’s the prelude to nine months of passionate competition, surprises, and top-tier sportsmanship.
The tradition continues
This year, on August 28th and 29th, the tradition will continue. The Grimaldi Forum will once again be the stage for the official opening of the 2025/2026 season, where the fate of Europe’s top clubs will be decided. Moments of anticipation and uncertainty await as the groups are formed, with fans worldwide eagerly waiting to see who their team’s rivals will be.
The official kick-off
The draw represents the official start of the European season, the moment when dreams of European glory begin to take shape. For the clubs, it’s an opportunity to begin their journey toward the finals, and for the fans, it’s a hint of the great matches that lie ahead. The atmosphere is always special—club officials, football legends, and journalists from all over the world gather in one place. While the primary focus is on the group draw, the event also serves as a platform for exchanging ideas, discussions, and, of course, predictions.
A ritual for football fans
Ultimately, the draw in Monaco is not just an administrative act, but a ritual that moves the hearts of millions of football fans. It is the moment when theoretical chances turn into concrete challenges, and the dream of lifting the trophy becomes tangible. Starting on August 28th, the countdown begins to the first whistles on pitches across Europe, announcing yet another exciting and unpredictable football story.
