The Champions League final between Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain will take place at Puskas Arena in Budapest on May 30. However, it is noteworthy that the opening time has been adjusted by UEFA significantly earlier than traditionally.
Instead of starting at 8 pm UK time as usual, the match will kick off at 5 pm. This decision was announced by UEFA in August last year as part of a plan to improve the overall experience for fans.
According to the European football governing body, moving the match time earlier is to optimize logistics for teams, spectators and the host city. UEFA believes that the new time frame will help fans, especially those traveling far away, to use public transport more conveniently after the match.
UEFA also believes that an earlier end to the match will create a positive economic impact for Budapest, because fans have more time to enjoy the festive atmosphere and activities after the final.
The television factor also plays an important role in this decision. UEFA wants to adjust the schedule to better suit many global broadcasting markets, while expanding access to international audiences.
UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin emphasized that fans are the focus of this change.
We want to put the fan experience first. The Champions League final is the pinnacle of the football season and the new start time will make the match more accessible, more comprehensive and create a greater impact on everyone involved," he said.
Ceferin also believes that starting early on Saturday night will help the match end in a more reasonable time frame, even if it has to go into extra time or penalty shootouts.
Fans will have more time to enjoy the evening with friends and family, as well as share their feelings after the biggest match of the season" - UEFA President added.
Football Supporters Europe, an organization representing European football fans, also welcomed this decision. CEO Ronan Evain said that changing the match time is a positive step forward for fans who come directly to the stadium.
According to Evain, the new time frame makes daily commuting more possible, reduces late-night traffic pressure and creates conditions for fans to enjoy the event more comfortably.
This will be the first time in many years that the Champions League final takes place at such an early time, marking UEFA's efforts to adjust the tournament towards being more friendly to global audiences.
