Chelsea have confirmed Stamford Bridge will host Shakhtar Donetsks Champions League games this season. Following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine by Russia, Shakhtar have played their European games at various cities across the continent. They play their domestic games in the western Ukrainian city of Lviv, with Donetsk under Russian control. Shakhtar have not played at their Donbas Arena since 2014, when they were forced to abandon it due to the outbreak of fighting between pro-Russian separatists and the Ukrainian armed forces.Chelsea failed to qualify for any form of European football after a disappointing 10th-placed finish last season, leaving Stamford Bridge available for use in midweek.And, after playing last seasons European games in Krakow and Ljubljana, Shakhtar will use West London as their home this term after regaining the Ukrainian title last season and clinching a place in the league phase of Europes top club competition.The decision is subject to regulatory approval but UEFA and Hammersmith and Fulham council have already given the green light.According to the latest figures, there are 32,000 Ukraine-born residents in London. Around 100,000 people of Ukrainian heritage live in the UK.A Chelsea statement read: FC Shakhtar have played in countries across Europe and we look forward to welcoming them to London for their Champions League campaign this year.We will be working with the Shakhtar team closely over the coming weeks to ensure that matchdays run safely and smoothly for their team and supporters.Shakhtar said: Playing our Champions League home matches at Stamford Bridge is a special opportunity for Shakhtar. We are grateful to Chelsea Football Club for the opportunity to host our games at this special venue. Stamford Bridge is one of the most famous stadiums in world football, with an incredible history and atmosphere. We are convinced that Shakhtars matches in London will provide unforgettable emotions for Ukrainian and English fans. Topics Champions League Chelsea F.C. FC Shakhtar Donetsk Add us as a preferred source on Google If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read Fantasy Premier League 2026/27: Why Im going without Erling Haaland: My Gameweek 1 FPL team reveal Blake Hurst 21st August, 2026 Fantasy Premier League 2026/27: Five forwards to target ahead of Gameweek 1 including a 5%-owned gem Blake Hurst 21st August, 2026 Fantasy Premier League 2026/27: Manchester quartet headline five midfielders to target for Gameweek 1 Blake Hurst 21st August, 2026 Fantasy Premier League 2026/27: Five defenders you need for Gameweek 1 including a 1.8%-owned differential Blake Hurst 21st August, 2026 Chelsea boss Alonso happy with top player Fernandez and praises Argentines attitude Jon Fisher 20th August, 2026 Celtic 3-0 LASK: Report, result, goals from Champions League Ben Miller 20th August, 2026
