Nations League 2026-27: How promotion, relegation, knockouts and Euro 2028 qualification work
With the group stage entering its final phase, we break down the promotion, relegation, and knockout mechanisms of the 2026-27 Nations League and its impact on Euro 2028.
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The 2026-27 Nations League group stage is heading towards its conclusion. The eight teams finishing in the top two of the four League A groups will advance to the knockout rounds, scheduled for March 2027. Winners of these two-legged ties will reach the semi-finals and final in June 2027 to crown the champion.
Promotion and relegation rules are strictly defined for this cycle. League B and C group winners earn automatic promotion, while second-placed teams face a third-placed side from the league above in a promotion/relegation play-off. Conversely, the bottom-placed teams in League A and B groups are relegated.
Because the format is shifting for the next cycle, League D will be abolished, meaning all League D teams are guaranteed promotion to League C, while no teams will be relegated from League C at the end of this campaign.
Performance in this edition is vital for Euro 2028 qualification. With England, Scotland, Wales, and the Republic of Ireland hosting the tournament and no automatic qualification granted, performance in the Nations League will provide a secondary route to the finals. Up to two places may be awarded to the best-ranked co-hosts that fail to qualify via the traditional group stage.
Play-off spots for Euro 2028 will be filled by Nations League group winners from Leagues A, B, and C that miss out on top-two finishes in their qualifying groups. This ensures that the Nations League remains a critical safety net for teams vying for a spot at the European Championships.