UEFA could move Champions League final from Russia to Wembley over Ukraine invasion

UEFA could be forced to move the Champions League final in St Petersburg if Russia invades Ukraine.

This season’s showpiece game is due to take place in the Gazprom Arena on May 28.

But UEFA bosses would be left with no choice but to switch venues should Russian president Vladimir Putin go through with his threat to invade neighbouring Ukraine.

And Wembley would be considered as a possible alternative to host club football’s biggest game, especially if two English teams have reached the final.

Staging the Champions League final is said to be worth more than £60m to the city involved.

UK Defence Secretary Ben Wallace has told parliament there is “strong cause for concern that President Putin “is still committed to an invasion.”

UEFA are monitoring the Ukrainian crisis closely, with a view to drawing up a contingency plan if needed.

Last season’s final was switched from Istanbul to Porto just three weeks before kick off, after the Turkish city was placed on the Covid 19 red list, meaning supporters were unable to travel.

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Several major European airlines have announced they are either suspending or scaling back flights to both Ukraine and Russia amid increasing security concerns.

Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool and holders Chelsea have all reached the Champions League knockout stages, with Pep Guardiola’s side the bookies’ favourites to go on and win it this season.