The UEFA Europa League, often overshadowed by the prestigious Champions League, holds its own charm and history. As Bayer Leverkusen prepare to face off against Atalanta on Wednesday night we take a quick look at five intriguing facts about this fascinating competition that you might not know:

1. It wasn’t always called the Europa League

The competition originally started as the UEFA Cup in 1971. It wasn’t until the 2009-2010 season that it was rebranded as the Europa League. The change wasn’t just in name but also in structure, aiming to give the tournament a fresh appeal and greater commercial value.

2. Its roots are in the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup

The Europa League’s origins can be traced back to the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup, which began in 1955 as a way to promote international trade fairs through football. The competition was initially contested by teams from cities hosting trade fairs. By 1971, it was taken over by UEFA and evolved into the UEFA Cup.

3. Sevilla FC: The kings of the Europa League

Sevilla FC holds the record for the most Europa League titles. The Spanish club has won the competition seven times (as of 2023). Their dominance in the tournament is unparalleled, with victories in 2006, 2007, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2020, and 2023. Their consistent performances have solidified their reputation as a powerhouse in European football.

4. The Europa League winner gets a Champions League spot

One of the major incentives for teams participating in the Europa League is that the winner earns a place in the following season’s Champions League group stage. This rule, introduced in the 2014-2015 season, has added significant importance and prestige to winning the Europa League, providing a crucial opportunity for clubs to compete at the highest level.

5. Record number of participating teams

The Europa League is unique in its extensive participation, with over 200 teams entering the competition at various stages each season. This inclusivity allows clubs from smaller leagues and countries to compete on the European stage, promoting a wider and more diverse range of footballing cultures.

The Europa League’s rich history and unique aspects make it a beloved tournament for fans worldwide. Its unpredictable nature, coupled with the opportunity for glory and a ticket to the Champions League, ensures that it remains a crucial part of the European football calendar. Whether you are a long-time follower or a newcomer to the competition, these fascinating facts offer a deeper appreciation of the Europa League’s place in football history.

Tonight’s final, which is being played at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium kicks off at 9pm.