The English firm responsible for the new Champions League draw say they are fully prepared to deal with the threat of a cyber attack from Russia.
Hemel Hempstead-based AE Live are providing the software for a largely computer-generated system that will take place on Thursday in Monaco as the competition switches to a 36-team league format.
They believe they are well-equipped to deal with the threat posed by hostile hackers and have prepared accordingly.
'We're taking cyber security incredibly seriously,' said chief executive David Gill. 'Clearly this is a sensitive issue. I'm reluctant to go into details about what we're doing but I can assure you we have taken all steps we can to make sure this is as safe and secure as possible.'
Gill revealed that his company had experienced attacks when working for FIFA around the World Cup draw following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
'We've experienced this. We've been through risk assessments and put precautions in place,' he added.
The new league format will see teams guaranteed to play eight matches, two more than the previous format. Each team will be drawn manually, with their eight opponents decided by the computer.
Meanwhile, UEFA vice secretary general Giorgio Marchetti denied that the new format was a not-so-subtle attempt to see off attempts to create a breakaway European Super League, despite the increased revenues it will bring for clubs.
'No,' the forthright Italian said. 'We started the reform of our competitions back in 2018. We have been working on this for a long time. You can't work out a format like this over a weekend.
'Back in 2018 we agreed with clubs it was time for a in depth reform of our competition. We looked at many formats. This one ticked many boxes.'
There were 32 teams in eight groups last season, but there will now be one big 36-team league
He also played down concerns that the move would overload players who have already complained about a hectic schedule.
'There have been many discussions with stakeholders,' he said. 'We listened to parties and stakeholders and this was acceptable. What has been done has been done hand in hand with clubs. This is not UEFA imposing. It's the result of lengthy discussions.'