UEFA Change Kick-Off Time for Champions League Final Starting This Season

Starting with the 2026 final in Budapest, the UEFA Champions League final will kick off at 18:00 CET (7pm East African time) instead of the traditional 21:00 CET (10pm EAT).

The decision is designed to enhance the overall matchday experience for fans, teams, and host cities by optimizing logistics and operations, bringing numerous tangible benefits.

The goal is to make matchday a truly enjoyable experience for everyone wanting to be part of the excitement, while also creating a welcoming atmosphere that makes it easier for families and children to attend the biggest and most important club football match of the season.

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For travelling fans, this means better access to public transport—especially after the match—and a safer, more convenient journey back from the stadium. For host cities, this will amplify the event's positive economic impact by allowing fans to continue their celebrations.

The new kick-off time also aligns with a more accessible broadcast slot, helping the final reach an even wider television and digital audience worldwide, with a special focus on engaging younger viewers.

"While a 21:00 CET kick-off is well-suited for midweek matches, an earlier start on a Saturday for the final means an earlier finish—regardless of extra time or penalties—and gives fans the chance to enjoy the rest of their evening with friends and family, reflecting on the match of the season."

"An earlier kick-off makes one-day trips more feasible, reduces travel stress, and allows fans to enjoy the event without worrying about late-night logistics. It's a practical improvement that puts fans first and continues to build on the progress already made in enhancing the welcoming atmosphere, accessibility, and service levels at UEFA finals."

This latest adjustment builds on a successful precedent. The UEFA Champions League final has been played on a Saturday since 2010. This scheduling solution has consistently proven successful for the major event that brings the curtain down on the European club season—increasing fan engagement and contributing to the global growth of European club competitions.