UEFA ‘monitoring’ situation in Russia as Champions League final decision looms

UEFA may face no choice but to rip up plans to hold the Champions League final in St Petersburg if Russia invades Ukraine.

The biggest game in club football is due to be held at the Gazprom Arena on May 28, but this may all change if things escalate.

As things stand, there are no plans to move the showpiece final, but UEFA are keeping a close on all of the developments and will take action if Vladimir Putin decides to invade Ukraine.

The Champions League final is thought to be worth more that £60 million to the host city, but UEFA have moved the final before. Indeed, just last year the final was switched to Porto on three week’s notice due to COVID concerns in Istanbul.

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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 crisis in Ukraine closely and are prepared to draw up a contingency plan if required, with Wembley said to be a potential alternative venue.

A statement released by the governing body read: “UEFA is constantly and closely monitoring the situation. At present, there are no plans to change the venue.”

Liverpool will be hoping they are involved in the final at the end of May as they eye a seventh European triumph.