Bournemouth have qualified for European football for the first time in their history, securing a minimum of four home matches in the league phase of the Champions League or Europa League next season. Despite the Vitality Stadium being the smallest in the Premier League with a capacity of around 11,300—6,000 fewer than the next smallest—the club has confirmed to BBC Sport that it holds the necessary UEFA licence to host these games.
While some online speculation questioned the stadium's eligibility, UEFA's category four requirements include a minimum capacity of 8,000, which the Vitality Stadium exceeds. The Cherries join a list of clubs that have successfully hosted European matches in compact venues, such as Norwegian side Bodo/Glimt, whose stadium holds just over 8,000 spectators.
To obtain category four status, Bournemouth must meet extensive criteria, including pitch dimensions of 105m x 68m with undersoil heating and irrigation, a minimum of 8,000 seats (with at least 5% for away fans), adequate toilet facilities for both sexes, electronic turnstiles, 100 VIP seats, 150 parking spaces for VIPs and staff, 60 media seats, and two broadcast studios.
If a club's home ground lacks the required licence, they typically relocate to a nearby compliant stadium. For instance, Welsh side The New Saints played Conference League matches at Shrewsbury Town's ground last season, while Union Berlin used Hertha Berlin's stadium for Champions League fixtures. However, Bournemouth will not need to move, as their stadium satisfies all necessary standards.