The UEFA Champions League has launched a refreshed visual identity designed by Vasava, giving its iconic look a modern update while staying true to its roots. As one of the most prestigious football tournaments in the world, the Champions League needed a fresh style that felt current but still familiar to fans everywhere. The new design strikes that balance, blending tradition with a contemporary edge that works across digital and physical spaces.
At the heart of the new look is the legendary Starball, a symbol that’s been part of the tournament’s identity since the beginning. It still holds its recognizable shape but now has a glass-like texture that reflects subtle pops of color along the edges. This detail adds depth and a dynamic feel, making the emblem almost glow. The thicker, transparent design gives it both a delicate and strong quality—mirroring the elegance and intensity of Europe’s top-tier football. The way light and shadows play within Starball’s design adds a sense of motion, capturing the energy of unforgettable match nights.
Alongside the Starball, the Ultimate Stage concept has evolved. The updated design incorporates the same light-reflecting qualities, with waves of color radiating from the stadium. These vibrant streaks form a canopy effect, evoking the spectacle of high-stakes European football. Its design bridges real-world stadium vibes with digital flair, making it adaptable for everything from TV broadcasts to social media.
One of the standout additions is the «Lightwave» graphics. Inspired by the prism-like refractions in the Starball, these flowing, colorful waves add flexibility to the visual identity. Whether layered over photos, videos, or promotional content, Lightwave graphics bring a fresh, dynamic feel without overpowering the design. They add movement and energy, perfect for storytelling across different platforms.
The custom typeface, Champions Display Refracted, draws from the emblem’s light and color distortion idea. The letters have gradient edges that mimic the rainbow-like fringes created when light hits glass. It’s bold and versatile, and thanks to clever shading that gives it a sense of depth, it works just as well in full color as in monochrome. The design ensures that visuals stay consistent and striking, whether on a giant screen or a mobile phone.
While the signature deep blue remains prominent, it’s now complemented by subtle gradients reflecting the Starball’s refracted light. These new tones add a vibrant spectrum without removing the core blue, keeping the brand recognizable while introducing a fresh twist. The rainbow-like hues reflect the diversity and energy of the competition, connecting with fans from all over the world.
Motion design is another key feature of the rebrand. The shimmering edges of the Starball and the typography come to life with animations that mimic the flow of light through glass. These effects work perfectly for broadcast graphics, social media, and live events, creating an immersive experience that matches the excitement on the pitch.
While the changes are subtle, they add a level of polish and versatility that feels right for today’s fast-moving, digital-first world. The design evolution keeps the Champions League legacy intact while giving it a fresh, modern edge. The updated look will carry the brand forward for seasons, reinforcing its place as the pinnacle of European club football.