Russia-Ukraine crisis could force UEFA to move Champions League final from Saint Petersburg and seek new venue
Tue, Feb 22, 2022
Soccer News (AP)
European soccer governing body UEFA were in talks on Tuesday over the impact that Russia's deployment of troops in Ukraine will have over the status of the Champions League final.
Saint Petersburg's Krestovsky Stadium is due to host the showpiece event on May 28 but its status has been thrown into even greater doubt over recent hours following Russia's decision to recognize the independence of areas of eastern Ukraine, a move that has triggered widespread international condemnation.
A statement issued by UEFA on Tuesday acknowledged for the first time the possibility that the final could be moved. It said, "UEFA is constantly and closely monitoring the situation and any decision would be made in due course if necessary." AP Sports sources have indicated that conversations have taken place over contingency plans for the final. These could ultimately lead to a new venue being sought.
Having rearranged the 2020 and 2021 finals due to the COVID-19 pandemic, UEFA have processes in place that will allow for a swift relocation of the match should it be required. London's Wembley Stadium has been suggested as a possible alternative though UEFA are not believed to have progressed towards securing a replacement venue.
European politicians have already indicated their opposition to the final being played in Russia, who also hosted the 2008 final between Chelsea and Manchester United. British prime minister Boris Johnson said that there should be "no chance of holding football tournaments in a Russia that invades sovereign countries."
A spokesperson for the U.K. government confirmed that it would raise to Champions League final with UEFA. "We will not allow President Putin to exploit sporting and cultural events on the world stage to legitimize his renewed illegal invasion of Ukraine," they said.
