European football's governing body UEFA are considering switching the Champions League final to another country as tensions mount between Russia and Ukraine.
The final of the competition, which Liverpool will hope they are competing in for a seventh European title, is set for May 28 at the Gazprom Arena in St Petersburg, but with Russia military forces mobilised on the border with Ukraine and fears rising over a potential invasion, UEFA are moving to get ahead of likely political pressure to engage in talks over moving to another venue.
The Times report that UEFA are 'holding talks' over moving the venue having previously released a statement that said they would monitor the situation before taking any action. But with the situation between Russia and Ukraine a fluid one UEFA are now making contingency plans, with the Times claiming it is 'very likely' that the venue will be switched.
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UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has already warned of potential sanctions on Russia should they invade Ukraine, a threat that other leaders across Europe will likely echo.
That, allied with the possibility that travel to Russia during times of political turmoil would be advised against by the foreign offices, means that the attendance of fans at the game would be in doubt, something that UEFA know they can ill afford as they still try to find a path out of the huge financial problems created by the pandemic.
Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, Nadine Dorries said: "I have serious concerns about the sporting events due to be held in Russia, such as the Champions League Final, and will discuss with the relevant governing bodies.
" We won’t allow President Putin to exploit events on the world stage to legitimise his illegal invasion of Ukraine."
UEFA's decisions will be tough, though, with Gazprom, one of Russia's biggest firms, a major commercial partner of European football's governing body.
The Champions League final is thought to be worth more that £60 million to the host city, but UEFA have moved the final before. Indeed, just last year the final was switched to Porto on three week's notice due to COVID concerns in Istanbul.
Other venues have already been mooted, including Wembley, but no firm decision has yet been taken by UEFA with talks ongoing.
