Atletico Madrid Caught Off Guard by Louzán’s Champions League Final Venue Claim

Atletico Madrid was taken aback when Rafael Louzán, president of the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), unexpectedly announced that the Metropolitano Stadium would host the 2027 Champions League final. The club had no prior knowledge of this decision, believing that the final verdict on the venue would be revealed in May.

During a presentation at La Cartuja Stadium in Seville, Louzán confidently stated, “We have secured the 2027 Champions League final.” This declaration came as a complete surprise to Atletico Madrid officials, who were unaware of any such confirmation.

Following the confusion caused by Louzán’s statement, the RFEF quickly issued a clarification. They emphasized that the president’s words were merely an expression of intent and optimism, not an official confirmation. The federation stated, “It’s important to clarify that this was a declaration of intent and optimism for Madrid to host the final. UEFA will announce their decision in late May. The RFEF believes that Spain, Madrid, and specifically the Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium are well-prepared and ideally positioned to host this final.”

Atletico Madrid had indeed offered the Metropolitano Stadium as a potential venue for the 2027 Champions League final. The stadium has progressed through various selection rounds and is now one of two finalists, alongside the Olympic Stadium in Baku, Azerbaijan. The winning bid will be announced on May 21, 2025, in Bilbao, during the Europa League final.

While the Atletico Madrid stadium is considered a frontrunner to host the prestigious continental competition’s final, nothing can be confirmed until the official announcement in May. The club, along with football fans, must wait for UEFA’s decision to know for certain where the 2027 Champions League final will take place.