UEFA announce why Champions League final kick-off time has been moved
The UEFA Champions League have announced changes to the final kick off in this year's season.
Saturday night will see the season's final fixture, as Paris Saint-Germain face off against Arsenal in the Champions League.
The last game is set to take place at the Puskas Arena in Budapest, and organisers have now confirmed that it will be happening during an earlier slot than last year.
That means that kick off will be on May 30 at 5pm BST, and was confirmed by the football body back in August last year, who said that at the time that it was intended to 'enhance the overall matchday experience for fans, teams and host cities'.
Advert
UEFA has also specified that the earlier slot was intended to give fans with plans to travel to watch the match easier transport links.
The decision has been welcomed by fan groups, including Football Supporters Europe, whose executive director Ronan Evain said to WalesOnline: "This is a welcome step forward for match-going fans that we very much support.
"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."
He added: "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."
Confirming the change, UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin said in a statement: "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 21:00 CET [8 p.m. BST] 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."
Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain will face off in the final on May 30.
Arsenal are coming fresh off the back of success in the UK after claiming victory in the Premier League, and are now hoping to continue their winning streak with the European championship.
Topics: UK News, Football, Sport, Premier League
Kit Roberts