UEFA ‘could be forced to move the Champions League final’ from St Petersburg if Russia follow through on the threat to invade Ukraine, with Wembley ‘a possible alternative’
UEFA bosses could be left with no choice but to move the Champions League final in St Petersburg if Russia invade Ukraine.
The tournament’s final is due to take place at the Gazprom Arena in St Petersburg on May 28.
However, amid growing tensions, organisers could be forced to find a new venue as Russian president Vladamir Putin pushes ahead with his threat to invade Ukraine.
Wembley could be a possible replacement venue, especially if two English teams make it all the way to the final this year, according to the Daily Star.
Putin has ordered his troops to enter Ukraine on a ‘peacekeeping mission’ after he officially recognised the country’s eastern regions as independent states.
The move has increased concerns that it will lead to a long-feared Russian invasion of Kiev.
UEFA bosses could be forced to move the Champions League final from the Gazprom Arena (pictured) in St Petersburg if Russia invade Ukraine
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said Putin’s decision to recognise the two separatist Ukrainian republics was in breach of international law and an ‘ill omen’ and ‘dark sign’ that things are moving in the wrong.
Meanwhile, UEFA are said to be closely monitoring the situation with a view to drawing up a contingency plan if necessary.
Hosting the Champions League final could reportedly hand the selected city a financial boost of more than £60m.
Last year’s final between Chelsea and Manchester City was also moved with the venue switching from Istanbul to Porto.
Covid-19 restrictions saw Turkey placed on the UK’s red list, preventing supporters from travelling to the country.
UEFA (pictured president Aleksander Ceferin) are said to be closely monitoring the situation
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