The Mayor of London, , has hailed London's status as
the sporting capital of the world as the city prepares to host
European club football's biggest game for a record eighth time.
The UEFA Champions League final between Borussia Dortmund and
Real Madrid, will take place at Wembley on 1 June forming the
centrepiece of a four-day, family-friendly UEFA Champions
Festival. This will take place across five central London
locations between Thursday 30 May and Sunday 2 June.
Festivities will kick off on Thursday 30 May at Trafalgar Square
as the Mayor welcomes the UEFA Champions League trophy to London,
before the square becomes a hub of family activities. This will
be followed by an exclusive headline performance by Hackney's
Rudimental on Friday night (1), with the show powered by the
movement of dancing fans through a cutting edge ‘kinetic
dancefloor'. Thursday's festivities will culminate with a
DJ set by Faithless.
Meanwhile, Somerset House courtyard will be transformed into the
home of footballing royalty as it hosts the Ultimate Champions
Tournament, bringing together former UEFA Champions League
legends from around the globe to showcase their skills in a
5-a-side tournament. The UEFA Champions Pitch will also host
community groups and schools from across London, offering them a
once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to join in the
celebrations.
The UEFA Champions Festival will also come to Regent Street on 30
and 31 May, with a two-day takeover pedestrianising the iconic
thoroughfare from Oxford Circus to Piccadilly Circus. Fans will
have the opportunity to take part in a range of activities,
including penalty shootout challenges.
Visitors to Potters Fields Park, next to Tower Bridge, will be
greeted by a giant inflatable UEFA Champions League trophy,
providing a striking backdrop for photo opportunities and
immersive experiences that celebrate the grandeur of the UEFA
Champions League, Europe's premier club competition. These
interactive installations will continue along the South Bank,
with a range of activities for visitors to take part in.
The Mayor of London, said: “ London is
the sporting capital of the world and so it's fitting that we are
hosting the UEFA Champions League final.
“I am proud that Europe's biggest match will take place in London
and delighted that thousands of Londoners and visitors will be
able to experience the thrill of this special competition through
the UEFA Champions Festival.
“This is the start of an incredible sporting summer for London
and a key part of our work to build a better London for
everyone.”
Theodore Theodoridis, UEFA General Secretary,
said: “We look forward to welcoming everyone to the UEFA
Champions Festival, right in the heart of central London, as we
celebrate the end of another fantastic football season and crown
the next UEFA Champions League winner.
“Festivalgoers will enjoy a wide array of family-friendly
entertainment, creating memories that will last a lifetime ahead
of what is sure to be another epic encounter at the iconic
Wembley Stadium.”
Chief Superintendent Joe McDonald, who will be part of
the command team overseeing policing in London during the weekend
of the UEFA Champions League final, said: “The eyes of
the sporting world will once again focus on London and our
officers will be there to ensure this is a memorable week. We
have been working closely with a number of partners including
UEFA, FA, Wembley Stadium, local authorities and other blue light
emergency services.
“Throughout the week there will be a number of events building up
to the Champions League final, we advise anyone who will be in
central London to plan ahead.
“If you do see anything suspicious throughout the week at one of
the events please do not hesitate to speak with an officer or
steward.”
Sports Minister . said:
“The UEFA Champions League final is a special moment in the
sporting calendar, and I am delighted Wembley is playing host to
Europe's premier club football teams.
"The UK has a brilliant track-record of hosting some of the
world's biggest sporting competitions, and the Champions Festival
will see London coming alive for a four-day, family-friendly
festival of fun."
The Mayor of London is working closely with all relevant
authorities to ensure a safe and secure experience for all fans
and visitors. Transport for London have advised travellers that
public transport is likely to be very busy on 1 June,
particularly the Jubilee and Metropolitan lines. Customers are
advised to seek alternative travel routes.
