Hibernian FCTeam·Hibernian FC will enter the 2026/27 UEFA Conference LeagueCompetition·Conference League as a seeded team for the second qualifying round draw, a development that provides a clearer initial pathway in their pursuit of European group stage football. The draw, scheduled for Wednesday, June 17, 2026, will determine Hibs' first opponent in a campaign that begins with two-legged ties on Thursday, July 23, and Thursday, July 30.
The Edinburgh club secured their place in European competition for the second consecutive season by finishing fifth in the Scottish Premiership. Their qualification was confirmed after CelticTeam·Celtic's victory in the Scottish Cup, which opened up an additional Conference LeagueCompetition·Conference League spot through the league standings. This marks a significant achievement for Hibernian, as it is the first time in 50 years, excluding Intertoto Cup appearances, that they have qualified for Europe in back-to-back seasons.
Hibernian's 2025/26 European journey saw them navigate a challenging path. They initially competed in the UEFA Europa LeagueCompetition·Europa League, where they were narrowly defeated by Danish side Midtjylland with a 3-2 aggregate score in the second qualifying round. Subsequently, they transitioned to the UEFA Conference LeagueCompetition·Conference League, successfully overcoming Serbian club FK Partizan in the third qualifying round. Their campaign concluded in the play-off round, where they faced Legia Warsaw and were ultimately eliminated after extra time in a tightly contested 5-4 aggregate loss. Manager David Gray expressed considerable pride in the team's performance during that run, highlighting the valuable experience gained.
Being seeded for the second qualifying round means Hibernian will avoid some of the stronger teams in the initial stages of the competition, such as AjaxTeam·Ajax and BragaTeam·Braga, as reported by the Hibs Observer. However, the path to the group stage remains demanding. A crucial implication for the 2026/27 season is the absence of a 'parachute' into another competition if eliminated in the second qualifying round of the Conference LeagueCompetition·Conference League. Unlike previous seasons, an early exit will mean the end of their European aspirations for the year, underscoring the importance of progression through each stage. All 36 teams in the Conference LeagueCompetition·Conference League must navigate the qualifying rounds, as there are no automatic qualifiers for the group stage.
As the draw approaches, anticipation will build among supporters, eager to see which opponent Hibernian will face as they embark on another European adventure.
Josh Campbell of Hibernian FC reacts during a match against Livingston at Easter Road. Shutterstock/IMAGO
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