The Daily Drifts
The UEFA Champions League, as we know it today, began in the 1992-1993 season. However, the competition’s origins go back further to 1955, when it was initially known as the European Cup. It was rebranded to the “Champions League” in 1992 to include a more modern format and broader group stage setup.
Since the rebranding in 1992, there has been one Champions League tournament each year, meaning that we are currently playing the 33rd edition of the UEFA Champions League under this format. Including the European Cup years from 1955 to 1992, the tournament has been held a total of 69 times.
So, in summary:
- European Cup (1955-1992): 37 editions
- Champions League (1992-present): 33 editions by 2024-2025
Which team has won the UEFA Champions League the most
Real Madrid holds the record for the most UEFA Champions League titles, with 15 victories as of 2024. Their success spans both the current Champions League era (since 1992) and the prior European Cup period, with wins in:
- The European Cup era: 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1966
- The Champions League era: 1998, 2000, 2002, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2022, 2024
Real Madrid’s dominance in both eras, particularly their remarkable run of five consecutive wins from 1956 to 1960, has helped cement their place in football history.
Clubs with the most UEFA Champions League titles as of 2024
| Club | Number of titles |
| Real Madrid | 15 |
| AC Milan | 7 |
| Liverpool | 6 |
| Bayern Munich | 6 |
| Barcelona | 5 |
| Ajax | 4 |
| Manchester United | 3 |
| Inter Milan | 3 |
| Juventus | 2 |
| Chelsea | 2 |
| Porto | 2 |
| Benfica | 2 |
| Nottingham Forest | 2 |
| Manchester City | 1 |
| Borussia Dortmund | 1 |
| Olympique de Marseille | 1 |
| Celtic | 1 |
| PSV Eindhoven | 1 |
The UEFA Champions League is the most prestigious tournament in European club football, where elite clubs compete for the ultimate title. Here’s a look at the clubs with the most UEFA Champions League titles as of 2024, their histories, and what sets them apart in European football.
1. Real Madrid – 15 Titles
Real Madrid leads with 15 UEFA Champions League titles, making them the most successful club in the competition’s history. Their victories span both the European Cup and Champions League eras, with titles won in:
- European Cup Era: 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1966
- Champions League Era: 1998, 2000, 2002, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2022, 2024
2. AC Milan – 7 Titles
Italian powerhouse AC Milan holds seven Champions League titles, making them the second most successful club in the tournament. Their wins came in:
- European Cup Era: 1963, 1969, 1989, 1990
- Champions League Era: 1994, 2003, 2007
AC Milan’s peak came in the late 1980s and early 1990s under legendary coach Arrigo Sacchi, who led the team to back-to-back titles in 1989 and 1990. Known for their strong defensive play and tactical prowess, AC Milan has consistently fielded top talents such as Paolo Maldini, Marco van Basten, and Kaka. Their last win in 2007 solidified their reputation as one of Europe’s most respected clubs.
3. Bayern Munich – 6 Titles
Bayern Munich is Germany’s most successful club in the Champions League, with six titles:
- European Cup Era: 1974, 1975, 1976
- Champions League Era: 2001, 2013, 2020
Bayern Munich is known for its consistency and strength across decades. The club won three consecutive titles in the 1970s, with legendary players like Franz Beckenbauer and Gerd Muller. Bayern’s recent titles in 2013 and 2020 showcased their high-intensity style, with players like Thomas Muller, Robert Lewandowski, and Manuel Neuer leading the charge.
4. Liverpool – 6 Titles
English club Liverpool also holds six Champions League titles, with victories in:
- European Cup Era: 1977, 1978, 1981, 1984
- Champions League Era: 2005, 2019
Liverpool’s European success began in the late 1970s and continued into the early 1980s, establishing them as one of Europe’s elite clubs. Known for their passionate fanbase and historic Anfield stadium, Liverpool achieved a famous comeback win in 2005 against AC Milan, and under manager Jurgen Klopp, they claimed their sixth title in 2019. Players like Steven Gerrard, Mohamed Salah, and Sadio Mane have contributed to Liverpool’s rich European history.
5. Barcelona – 5 Titles
Spanish giants Barcelona have won the Champions League five times, with all victories in the modern era:
- Champions League Era: 1992, 2006, 2009, 2011, 2015
Barcelona’s dominance in the Champions League began with their first title in 1992, shortly after the tournament was rebranded. Known for their famous “tiki-taka” style, Barcelona’s peak came under managers like Pep Guardiola, who led the team to victories in 2009 and 2011. Players like Lionel Messi, Xavi, and Andres Iniesta were pivotal in establishing Barcelona as a European powerhouse.
Other Notable Clubs with Multiple Titles
• Ajax (4 titles): Known for their strong youth academy and total football, Ajax dominated the early 1970s and claimed their last title in 1995.
• Manchester United (3 titles): This English club has consistently competed in the Champions League and won titles in 1968, 1999, and 2008.
• Inter Milan (3 titles): Italian club Inter Milan won titles in 1964, 1965, and a memorable one in 2010 under Jose Mourinho.
As of 2024, these clubs represent the best of European football, with Real Madrid leading the way with a remarkable 15 titles. Each club has its own unique legacy, contributing to the rich history and tradition of the Champions League. With new challengers rising each season, it remains to be seen if any club will challenge Real Madrid’s dominance in the years to come.
