A total of 72 teams participated in the 2002–03 Champions League, from 48 of 52
UEFA associations (Liechtenstein organises no domestic league competition). Two lowest-ranked associations (Andorra and San Marino) were not admitted. Additionally, no teams from Azerbaijan were admitted this year as no official champion was decided in the 2001–02 season. Below is the qualification scheme for the 2002–03 UEFA Champions League: • Associations 1–3 each have four teams qualify • Associations 4–6 each have three teams qualify • Associations 7–15 each have two teams qualify • Associations 16–52 each have one team qualify (except Liechtenstein, San Marino, Andorra and Azerbaijan)
Association ranking Countries are allocated places according to their 2001
UEFA league coefficient, which takes into account their performance in European competitions from 1996–97 to 2000–01.
Distribution Since the title holders (
Real Madrid) also qualified for the Champions League Third qualifying round through their domestic league, one Third qualifying round spot was vacated. Due to this, as well as due to suspension of Azerbaijan, the following changes to the default access list are made: • The champions of association 16 (Scotland) are promoted from the second qualifying round to the third qualifying round. • The champions of associations 26, 27 and 28 (Israel, Slovenia and Bulgaria) are promoted from the first qualifying round to the second qualifying round.
Teams League positions of the previous season shown in parentheses (TH: Champions League title holders). ;Notes ==Round and draw dates==