UEFA confirms major timing shift for 2026 Champions League final

Overview

• The draw for the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 has been finalised, and a significant adjustment has been made for this season’s final.
• The final will be held at the Puskás Arena in Budapest, Hungary, on May 30, 2026.
• Unlike past editions, the game will start earlier — at 5 PM UK time (8 PM IST).

The draw for the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 has been finalised, and a significant adjustment has been made for this season’s final. The final will be held at the Puskás Arena in Budapest, Hungary, on May 30, 2026. Unlike past editions, the game will start earlier — at 5 PM UK time (8 PM IST) — instead of the traditional 8 PM UK time (12:30 AM IST on May 31).

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UEFA has confirmed that the earlier kick-off is aimed at enhancing the overall matchday experience for fans, clubs, and host cities. The governing body believes this change will make it easier for travelling fans to access public transport after the match. Broadcasters are also expecting the revised timing to attract more viewers globally, particularly younger audiences.

Explaining the decision, UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin said: "With this change, we are placing the fans' experience at the heart of our planning. The UEFA Champions League final is the highlight of the football season, and the new kick-off time will make it even more accessible, inclusive, and impactful for everyone involved.”

"This is a welcome step forward for match-going fans that we very much support" - Evain

He further added: "While a 21:00 CET (20:00 GMT) kick-off is well suited for midweek matches, an earlier kick-off on a Saturday for the final means an earlier finish - regardless of extra time or penalties - and offers fans the opportunity to enjoy the rest of the evening with friends and family, reflecting on the game of the season."

The decision has also been welcomed by Football Supporters Europe (FSE). Its Executive Director, Ronan Evain, said the move was an important step in recognising fan needs.

"This is a welcome step forward for match-going fans that we very much support. Over the last couple of years, Football Supporters Europe has worked closely with UEFA to improve the fan experience at club finals, and this change further reflects the recognition of supporters’ needs,” he stated.

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Evain also highlighted the practical benefits of the new schedule: "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. It’s a practical improvement that puts fans first and continues to build on the progress already made to enhance the welcoming atmosphere, accessibility and service levels at UEFA finals."