The 2026 UEFA Champions League final between Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal will begin three hours earlier than the traditional kick-off time, following a decision announced by UEFA in August 2025.
The match, hosted at the 67,000-seat Puskás Aréna in Budapest, is scheduled to start at 6:00 p.m. CET instead of the usual 9:00 p.m. CET.
UEFA said the change was introduced to create a more accessible broadcasting window, improve access to public transportation, and provide supporters with a safer and more convenient journey home after the match. The governing body also believes the earlier finish will generate greater economic benefits for host cities by giving fans more time to celebrate and spend time in local businesses.
This is not the first major scheduling adjustment for Europe’s premier club competition. In 2010, UEFA moved the Champions League final from its traditional Wednesday slot to Saturday in an effort to attract larger global audiences.
Defending champions Paris Saint-Germain arrive in Budapest after another dominant season, having already won Ligue 1, the UEFA Super Cup and the French Super Cup. Arsenal, meanwhile, enter the final as newly crowned Premier League champions and remain unbeaten in this season’s Champions League campaign.
The North London club is appearing in its first Champions League final since 2006, when it lost 2-1 to FC Barcelona.