FLASH
Shkruar nga Pamfleti
A few hours before the Champions League "league phase" draw, which will take place today at 18:00, UEFA has announced a historic decision. Starting from this edition (the Budapest final, on May 30), the Champions League final will no longer start at 21:00, as has happened since 2010, but at 18:00.
According to UEFA, this change aims to "improve the overall match day experience for fans, teams and host cities, by optimising logistics and day-of operations, as well as offering various tangible benefits."
Our goal is to make the final day an enjoyable experience for all those who want to experience the excitement, creating a welcoming atmosphere that facilitates the participation of families and children in the biggest and most important club football match of the entire season."
Thus, the travel of fans to the cities of the finalist clubs will be much easier, while in the host cities the positive economic impact of the event will increase, enabling fans to continue the celebrations after the match.
It is also intended to increase television audiences worldwide, with Asia as the continent that benefits the most, by avoiding starting the match in the early hours of the morning.
Aleksander Ceferin, UEFA president, stressed: “ While a 9pm kick-off is appropriate for weekday matches, the earlier kick-off on Saturday 30 May for the Champions League final means the match will finish earlier, regardless of extra time or penalties. This gives fans the opportunity to enjoy the rest of the evening with friends and family, reflecting on the biggest game of the season .”
Ronan Evain, chief executive of Football Supporters Europe, welcomed the decision: " This is a very positive step for fans attending matches, which we fully support. Over the last two years, Football Supporters Europe has been working closely with UEFA to improve the fan experience at club finals."
This change further demonstrates the recognition of the needs of fans. The earlier start of the Champions League final makes it possible to travel within a day, reduces the stress of travel and allows fans to enjoy the event without worrying about overnight logistics. It is a practical improvement that puts fans first and builds on previous advances to improve the welcoming atmosphere, access and services at UEFA finals .”
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