Africa-Press – Eritrea. UEFA has announced that the Champions League final will kick off three hours earlier at 18:00 CET (16:00 GMT) starting in 2026, a move aimed at enhancing the match-day experience for fans.
The decision comes after the 2025 final in Munich, where Paris Saint-Germain thrashed Inter Milan 5-0.
That match began at 21:00 CET, leaving supporters leaving the stadium close to midnight after the trophy celebrations.
UEFA said the earlier kickoff will improve access to public transport, ease late-night travel issues, and bring economic benefits to host cities as fans are expected to continue their celebrations outside the stadium.
“The new kickoff time will make it even more accessible, inclusive, and impactful for everyone involved,” UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin said in a statement.
“While a 21:00 CET kickoff is well suited for midweek matches, an earlier kickoff on a Saturday for the final means an earlier finish — regardless of extra time or penalties.”
He added that the change would allow fans to enjoy the rest of the evening with friends and family, reflecting on what he described as “the game of the season.”
Football Supporters Europe (FSE) also welcomed the shift. Executive director Ronan Evain said:
“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.”
The 2026 Champions League final will be staged at the Puskás Aréna in Budapest.
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