London, UK – In a move set to reshape the football calendar, the Premier League has announced the creation of a mid-season tournament, the “Premier League Elite Cup,” which will feature the top six teams from the previous season. The tournament is scheduled to take place in January 2025 during a two-week break in the regular season, providing fans with high-stakes football during a typically quiet period.
The Premier League Elite Cup will include Manchester City, Arsenal, Manchester United, Newcastle United, Liverpool, and Tottenham Hotspur, all of whom finished in the top six last season. These teams will compete in a knockout format, with the winner not only taking home the trophy but also securing a significant cash prize and automatic qualification for the following season’s UEFA Champions League, regardless of their league position.
“We’re always looking for ways to innovate and keep the Premier League at the forefront of global football,” said Richard Masters, Chief Executive of the Premier League. “The Elite Cup will add an extra layer of excitement to the season, giving fans more opportunities to see their favorite teams compete at the highest level.”
The tournament will be held in neutral venues across the UK, with matches set to be broadcast globally. This initiative is part of the Premier League’s broader strategy to enhance its international appeal, particularly in key markets like the United States, Asia, and the Middle East, where interest in English football continues to grow.
In addition to the competitive edge, the Premier League Elite Cup is expected to generate significant revenue through broadcasting rights and sponsorship deals. The league has already secured a partnership with a leading global brand for the tournament’s title sponsorship, further underscoring its commercial potential.