London is set to experience a significant economic boost of £53 million from hosting the UEFA Champions League final, according to London & Partners.
Mayor Sadiq Khan has hailed the city as the 'sporting capital of the world' as a global audience of approximately 450 million viewers prepares to watch Real Madrid face Borussia Dortmund at Wembley Stadium.
The UEFA Champions League final, Europe's most prestigious club football match, is returning to Wembley for a record eighth time. The influx of high-spending football fans could potentially increase the economic impact beyond the estimated £53 million.
On match day, 50,000 fans of the two teams are expected to gather at Wembley, with many more visiting London to enjoy the UEFA Champions Festival. This four-day event will feature activities at iconic locations in central London, including the Ultimate Champions Tournament with former UEFA stars at Somerset House, concerts and family activities at Trafalgar Square, a two-day takeover of Regent Street, and a giant inflatable Champions League trophy near Tower Bridge. The festivities will commence with Mayor Khan and former Chelsea and West Ham player Joe Cole welcoming the UEFA Champions League trophy at Trafalgar Square.
Retail and hospitality sectors are anticipating increased sales leading up to the final. Over 1,500 stewards, all earning the London Living Wage, will be employed on match day to ensure visitor safety, supported by 550 Team London volunteers.
Hosting major events like the UEFA Champions League final underscores London’s reputation as a premier host for cultural, sporting, and business events. These events attract both domestic and international visitors, generating direct and indirect economic benefits for the city.
The Mayor is collaborating with key London partners, including local authorities, the Metropolitan Police, and Transport for London, to ensure a safe and secure experience for all fans and visitors. Transport for London has advised that public transport will be exceptionally busy on June 1, especially the Jubilee and Metropolitan lines, and travelers are encouraged to seek alternative routes.
The UEFA Champions League final marks the beginning of an exciting summer of sport in London. The city will also host Major League Baseball, Diamond League Athletics, test match cricket, Wimbledon, Olympic warm-up events, and Formula E. Londoners can look forward to supporting the Three Lions at Euro 2024 in Germany and welcoming back Olympic and Paralympic medallists from Paris. This thrilling summer will conclude with the return of NFL games at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and Wembley in the autumn. The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan said: “I am delighted to welcome fans and visitors from around the world to London, host city of the 2024 UEFA Champions League final.
“The benefits of hosting the final stretch far beyond the Wembley pitch and should last long after the full-time whistle blows. It is set to boost our capital’s economy by more than £50m.
“This match kicks off an incredible summer of sport, as London hosts baseball, cricket, tennis and Formula E, alongside our support for our teams at Euro 2024 in Germany and Team GB at the Paris Olympics and Paralympics.
“Bringing world class sport to London boosts our economy, showcases our city and inspires the next generation. IT’s a key part of our work to build a better London for everyone.” Photo by Wonker, Wikimedia commons.