UEFA has moved the 2026 Champions League final kick-off in Budapest from 21:00 to 18:00 local time to enhance fan experience, reduce travel strain, and improve broadcast reach.
UEFA has announced that the kick-off time for the 2026 Champions League final, to be held at the Puskás Arena in Budapest on Saturday, May 30, will be brought forward to 6:00 p.m. local time instead of the customary 9:00 p.m. .
The change, UEFA said, is intended to “enhance the matchday experience”, allowing fans to avoid late-night travel complications and enjoy the evening with more flexibility .
Ronan Evain, executive director for Football Supporters Europe, which collaborated with UEFA on the decision, added that “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.”
UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin noted that “while a 21:00 CET kick-off is well suited for midweek matches, an earlier kick-off on a Saturday for the final means an earlier finish — regardless of extra time or penalties.” He said the adjustment makes the occasion more inclusive and accessible .