When Does the 2025–2026 La Liga Season Start? Key Dates, Champions League Qualifiers, and Promotions & Relegations

The anticipation is building among football fans worldwide for the upcoming 2025–2026 La Liga season, especially after Barcelona clinched the title in the 2024–2025 campaign, preventing Real Madrid from retaining their crown.

La Liga remains one of the most thrilling and followed football leagues across the globe. Its popularity is fueled by the legendary rivalry between Barcelona and Real Madrid, two of the most decorated clubs in football history. The league also boasts a roster filled with top global talent, such as Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, and Jude Bellingham from Real Madrid, and Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, and Pedri from Barcelona.

So, when does the next season kick off? Which teams are heading to European competitions? Who got relegated and who earned promotion to La Liga? Here's everything you need to know.

🗓️ When Will the 2025–2026 La Liga Season Begin?

The Spanish Football League (La Liga) has officially announced the schedule for the new season. According to the league's statement, the season will commence on August 15, 2025, and conclude on May 24, 2026.

This timeline ensures an action-packed season that fits perfectly within the international football calendar and allows for winter breaks and European competition schedules.

⚽ Which Spanish Teams Qualified for the 2025–2026 UEFA Champions League?

Spain will be well represented in the next UEFA Champions League, with five teams securing their spots through impressive performances. Here's the list of qualified clubs:

These clubs will carry the Spanish flag into Europe’s elite tournament, hoping to add to the nation's rich Champions League legacy.

🏆 Who Qualified for the Europa League & Europa Conference League?

Apart from the Champions League qualifiers, other Spanish sides have also earned their place in European competitions.

Real Betis and Celta Vigo will participate in the 2025–2026 UEFA Europa League.

Rayo Vallecano, on the other hand, will compete in the UEFA Europa Conference League.

These tournaments provide a golden opportunity for these clubs to gain European experience and challenge for continental silverware.

📉 Which Teams Were Relegated to Segunda División?

Relegation is always tough, and for the 2024–2025 season, three clubs have been confirmed to drop to Spain’s Segunda División:

These teams will now aim to rebuild and bounce back stronger in the following season.

🚀 Who Got Promoted to La Liga for the 2025–2026 Season?

On the other side of the spectrum, three clubs are celebrating promotion to La Liga, hoping to make a mark in Spain's top-tier competition.

Levante secured automatic promotion by finishing first in the Segunda División.

Elche followed closely, earning the second automatic spot.

Real Oviedo triumphed in the playoffs to claim the third and final promotion slot.

These rising clubs will now face the ultimate test—competing against Spain’s elite teams in one of the toughest leagues in the world.

The 2025–2026 La Liga season is shaping up to be an exciting chapter in Spanish football. With Barcelona aiming to defend their title, Real Madrid seeking redemption, and newly promoted clubs eager to prove themselves, the competition promises plenty of drama, goals, and unforgettable moments.

From fierce rivalries to breakout stars, La Liga continues to captivate fans with its blend of technical brilliance and emotional intensity. Whether you're a long-time supporter or a new fan discovering the magic of Spanish football, this season is one you won’t want to miss.

Mark your calendars—August 15, 2025—La Liga returns!