UEFA have moved the Champions League Final kick-off time to 6pm CEST on a permanent basis from this season onwards.
The kick-off time of UEFA’s showpiece match had always been at 8:45pm then 9pm CEST for Central and Western-European countries, with only the final of women’s competition having often adopted the teatime kick-off slot in recent seasons.
UEFA President, Aleksander Ceferin explained that the change is about enhancing spectator experience for fans of all abilities, especially in terms of post-match travel and enjoying time with friends and family who also travel to the final.
“With this change, we are placing the fans’ experience at the heart of our planning. The UEFA Champions League final is the highlight of the football season, and the new kick-off time will make it even more accessible, inclusive, and impactful for everyone involved.
“While a 21:00CET kick-off is well suited for midweek matches, an earlier kick-off on a Saturday for the final means an earlier finish – regardless of extra time or penalties – and offers fans the opportunity to enjoy the rest of the evening with friends and family, reflecting on the game of the season.”
Executive Director for Football Supporters Europe, Ronan Evain welcomed the “step forward for match-going fans” reflecting the changing needs of fans in terms of travel with less pressure on late-night travel post match.
“Over the last couple of years, Football Supporters Europe has worked closely with UEFA to improve the fan experience at club finals, and this change further reflects the recognition of supporters’ needs.
“An earlier kick-off makes day trips more feasible, reduces travel stress, and allows fans to enjoy the occasion without worrying about late-night logistics.
“It’s a practical improvement that puts fans first and continues to build on the progress already made to enhance the welcoming atmosphere, accessibility and service levels at UEFA finals.”
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