The UEFA Executive Committee has decided to move the 2027 Champions League final from Milan's iconic San Siro stadium due to uncertainties surrounding planned renovations. The governing body of European football announced this decision on Tuesday, citing that the city could not guarantee that the stadium and its surrounding areas would be unaffected by refurbishment works.
"After careful consideration, it was determined that the final would not be awarded to Milan, and the bidding process for a new venue will be reopened, with an announcement expected by May or June 2025," UEFA stated.
The decision follows a recent rejection by AC Milan and Inter Milan—both tenants of San Siro—of a modernization proposal for the stadium, which is owned by the city of Milan. Mayor Giuseppe Sala indicated that the clubs are now considering reviving their plans for a new stadium near the San Siro, a project that had been abandoned due to bureaucratic challenges and political controversies.
In an effort to facilitate their stadium aspirations, AC Milan has acquired land in San Donato Milanese, located southeast of Milan, while Inter Milan is exploring options in the towns of Rozzano and Assago, just south of the city.
The San Siro stadium, renowned for its rich history, has previously hosted the Champions League final four times, most recently in 2016. In 2026, it is set to host the opening ceremony for the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics.
Following UEFA's announcement, the French city of Marseille expressed its interest in hosting the Champions League final, with local sports secretary Sébastien Jibrayel promoting the Vélodrome as a potential venue.
This move comes amid ongoing discussions regarding UEFA's financial support mechanisms. The governing body has confirmed a new solidarity funding arrangement that will see leagues like the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, Ligue 1, and the Bundesliga receive £8.3 million, aimed at supporting clubs that do not participate in European competitions.
