*** Champions League Final in Budapest to Start Earlier to Improve Fan Experience | THE DAILY TRIBUNE | KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

Champions League Final in Budapest to Start Earlier to Improve Fan Experience

TDT | Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

Kick-off time moved from 9 PM to 6 PM local time

 

UEFA has announced that the 2026 Champions League final in Budapest will kick off at 6:00 PM local time, instead of the usual 9:00 PM, to "enhance the matchday experience."

 

The final will be held at the Puskas Arena on Saturday, May 30.

 

Ronan Evain, executive director for Football Supporters Europe, explained that an earlier start "makes day trips more feasible, reduces travel stress, and allows fans to enjoy the occasion without worrying about late-night logistics."

 

Unlike the Europa League and Conference League finals, which take place midweek, the Champions League final has been traditionally held on Saturdays since 2010. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin said that an earlier kick-off "means an earlier finish — regardless of extra time or penalties."

 

Last season, Paris Saint-Germain claimed their first European Cup, defeating Inter Milan 5-0 in Munich.