UEFA Shifts Champions League Final Kickoff to 9 PM for Fan-Friendly Experience
The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) has announced a major change to the Champions League format, with the final set to kick off at 9 PM CET from the 2022-23 season.
Move to Enhance Fan Experience
In a bid to improve the overall experience for fans, teams, and host cities, UEFA has decided to shift the timings of the Champions League final. The game will now start at 9 PM on a Saturday, moving away from the traditional 6 PM start that has been in place since 2010.
According to UEFA, this change seeks to optimize logistics and operations, leading to several tangible benefits, including:
- Easier travel arrangements for fans, allowing them to enjoy the entire day without worrying about late-night travel.
- Increased economic impact in host cities due to longer celebrations.
- Potential boost in television viewership, particularly in Asia.
Alexander Cefer, UEFA President, stated, “Although a 9 PM kickoff suits midweek games, an earlier start on Saturday ensures the final ends before midnight, giving fans more time to celebrate with friends and family.“
Support from Fan Representatives
Football Supporters Europe (FSE) backend Ronan Evain has praised the move, “It’s a very positive step for fans. An earlier start makes one-day trips more feasible and reduces travel stress, allowing fans to focus on enjoying the event.”
Did you know?
The Champions League final will now emulate the timing of the annual UEFA Super Cup, which also kicks off at 9 PM CET.
Tradition Broken with a Promising Future
While some fans may miss the early kickoff tradition, the new timings promise a more enjoyable experience for the majority. UEFA’s decision underscores its commitment to enhancing the fan experience, marking an exciting chapter for European football.
What’s Next?
The new timings will take effect from the 2022-23 season, starting with the final in Budapest on May 30. Stay tuned for more updates on this and other Champions League developments.
FAQs
Will the new timings affect other UEFA competitions?
As of now, this change only applies to the Champions League final. Other UEFA competitions, such as the Europa League, maintain their current timings.
What if the game goes into extra time or penalties?
The end time may vary, but the kickoff at 9 PM ensures the game starts and ends later in the day, improving the overall fan experience.
Stay updated with the latest football news and insights. Join the conversation on our social media platforms and don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive content!