The UEFA Champions League final is one of the most prestigious events in international club football, making its hosting rights highly coveted. Recently, UEFA faced a significant challenge when Milan was stripped of its rights to host the 2027 final due to ongoing uncertainty regarding the San Siro’s condition amidst planned renovations. In light of this development, two cities—Madrid and Baku—have officially entered the race to hold this high-stakes match in 2027.
Milan’s loss of hosting rights came as a shock to football fans and stakeholders alike, illustrating the stringent demands UEFA places on host cities. The San Siro, home ground for both AC Milan and Inter Milan, failed to provide sufficient guarantees for its readiness to host such a significant event, prompting UEFA to re-open the bidding process. With Madrid and Baku stepping into the limelight, both cities now aim to showcase their capabilities as world-class hosts for this landmark fixture.
Madrid’s bid is spearheaded by the Estadio Metropolitano, the home stadium of Atlético Madrid. The venue has previously hosted a Champions League final, where Liverpool triumphed over Tottenham in 2019, adding to its credibility as an international venue. The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has put forward the Metropolitano as a prime candidate, emphasizing its modern facilities and passionate fan base. Additionally, the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home to Real Madrid, stands as a testament to the city’s rich footballing history, hosting the Champions League final four times, enhancing Madrid’s candidacy further.
Given Madrid’s cultural and sporting allure, it offers a unique experience for fans, tourists, and media. Football in Spain is more than just a sport; it’s an integral part of the nation’s identity. If selected, the 2027 final will not only elevate Madrid’s status but also inspire a new generation of football enthusiasts.
Baku: Breaking New Ground
On the other hand, Baku, Azerbaijan’s capital, represents a fresh and intriguing alternative. Baku’s Olympic Stadium, which played host to several events during Euro 2020 and the 2019 Europa League final, has never hosted a Champions League final. If chosen, it would mark a historical first for Azerbaijan and the easternmost venue in Champions League history. This would not only enhance Baku’s reputation on the global sporting map but also serve as a catalyst for further investments in sports infrastructure.
Yet Baku’s bid also raises questions about accessibility and fan engagement compared to Madrid. While Azerbaijan has been proactive in promoting its footballing heritage, it remains to be seen how the city can accommodate the influx of international fans expected for the final.
The countdown to the UEFA’s announcement in May 2025 officially begins now, with anticipation rising among supporters, stakeholders, and sports analysts. Alongside the battle for the men’s final, the competing bids for the Women’s Champions League final from Warsaw, Barcelona, Basel, and Cardiff reflect a broader trend of expanding football’s reach and diversity. While Madrid boasts tradition and experience, Baku offers a groundbreaking opportunity to redefine the landscape of European football. The choice lies with UEFA—a decision that promises to be both pivotal and historic for the future of the Champions League.