Skjern Håndbold’s participation in European club tournaments next season is in jeopardy unless they win the Danish Championship final against Aalborg. Club management mistakenly believed that reaching the final guaranteed their spot, but DanskHåndbold clarifies that victory is essential for European qualification.

The confusion stems from differing interpretations of DanskHåndbold’s propositions for European qualification. Skjern director Carsten Thygesen expressed surprise, stating that the handball community believed their place was secured and is seeking clarification.

Frank Smith, tournament manager at DanskHåndbold, confirmed that only winning the Danish Championship will secure Skjern’s access to European handball next season.

According to the European club tournament propositions, the Danish champion earns a Champions League spot. The European Handball Federation (EHF) also allocates extra Champions League places as “upgrades,” however, only teams already qualified for the European League can apply for these upgrades.

Skjern’s eighth-place finish in the regular season excludes them from applying for a Champions League upgrade because European League participation is determined by regular season standings. Seven other teams finished ahead of Skjern, further jeopardizing their chances.

The first Danish Championship final is scheduled for Wednesday at 8:30 PM in Aalborg.