Arsenal Champions League Final kick-off time moved as safety reasons cited in modern era first

A general view as players of Arsenal pose for a team photograph — Arsenal's Champions League kick off has been moved by UEFA (Image credit: Getty Images)

The kick off for Arsenal's Champions League final against Paris Saint Germain has been moved by UEFA to try and "enhance the matchday experience" for supporters.

Traditionally, kick off in the Champions League final has been at some time between 7 and 8pm UK time, although there were also the occasional 6.15pm and 6.30pm kick offs dating back to the 1970s.

UEFA claims the decision will 'make the game safer'

LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 05: The Arsenal team bus arrives to fans waiting outside the stadium as red smoke flares are set off prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Semi Final Second Leg match between Arsenal FC and Atletico de Madrid at Arsenal Stadium on May 05, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images) — It is hoped the move will make the stadium more accessible for supporters (Image credit: Getty Images)

In a statement announcing the new kick off time, UEFA stated that the aim was to make matchday a "truly enjoyable experience for everyone" and that they hope it will "create a welcoming atmosphere".

The new kick off time is more family friendly, meaning children can attend, while supporters making the trip to Budapest, where the final will take place, will have better access to public transport.

The Puskas Arena hosting the 2023 Europa League final — The final will be held at the Puskas Arena in Budapest (Image credit: Getty Images)

UEFA has said fans at home have also been considered with the time change, stating that it will reach "an even broader television and digital audience worldwide, with a particular focus on engaging younger viewers."

UEFA's president Aleksander Ceferin stated that the move "placed the fans' experience at the heart of our planning".

He added: "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."

The decision has been well received by supporters groups, with some labelling it a "step forward for match-going fans".

Ronan Evain, executive director for Football Supporters Europe, said: "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.

Arsenal fans react whilst watching the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Semi Final Second Leg Match against PSG in The Drayton Park pub on May 07, 2025 in London, England. — UEFA hopes the change will benefit TV viewers too (Image credit: Getty Images)

"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."

PSG are currently favourites to win the final with the bookies, as they look to retain the trophy they won last year.

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Ryan Gray is a freelance writer, covering mainly travel and occasionally sport. He previously spent two years as Sports Editor at the Watford Observer before turning his hand to travel writing, with his work appearing in various national UK publications. He has gone from providing matchday commentary for Blyth Spartans to covering FA Cup and Euros finals, as well as interviewing the likes of Claudio Ranieri, Alan Shearer and Glenn Hoddle, among other big names.