The Champions Hockey League (CHL) will significantly increase its team contribution for the 2026/27 season, raising the total distribution by 26% to € 3.2 million (previously € 2.54 million). Regular Season payments will rise to € 90,000 per team – the highest Regular Season distribution in CHL history. In addition, payments for the Round of 16, Quarter‑Finals and Semi‑Finals will double to € 30,000.

This increase, which is a part of the planned step-by-step strengthening of the financial model over the coming seasons, has been made possible through increased operational efficiency and reflects the CHL’s long‑term commitment to financial sustainability. The CHL Board has taken a clear and proactive approach to increase the overall financial return to clubs, while ensuring long-term financial sustainability and stability. The additional funds strengthen the central distribution and reflect the CHL’s ambition to continuously grow the financial value of participation for all clubs.

Listening to Clubs and Leagues

Throughout the past months and year, the CHL has been in close dialogue with clubs and leagues to understand their operational and financial challenges. Based on this input, the team contribution model has been adjusted to better support all 24 participating clubs within the existing financial framework.

The increase in Regular Season payments represents a € 10,000 uplift per team compared to 2025/26 season (+12.5%), and a total increase of 38% compared to the 2024/25 season. This continues the strategic shift towards a more balanced distribution model, supporting all participating teams in managing rising operational costs. At the same time, payments for the Round of 16, Quarter‑Finals and Semi‑Finals have been increased by 100% compared to the past season. This adjustment is designed to better offset increasing travel and logistics costs, particularly given the short turnaround time between the knockout stages for clubs progressing in the competition.

In addition to the team contribution, clubs are able to commercially exploit different commercial rights for up to six Official Club Partners and retain 100% of their ticketing and merchandise revenues. Therefore, the team contribution only represents one part of the overall financial value of participating in the CHL.

“By increasing our overall team contribution by 26%, we are taking an important step to strengthen the financial foundation of the CHL in a sustainable way. Financial sustainability and long‑term stability remain at the core of every decision we make,” explained CHL President Jörgen Lindgren. “This is not a one-off adjustment, but a part of a structured approach to gradually increase the financial return to our clubs over the coming seasons. At the same time, it is essential for us to listen closely to our clubs and leagues and understand the operational challenges they face. This adjustment ensures that all 24 participating teams are better supported and that the CHL continues to grow in a responsible and club‑focused manner.”