UEFA insist there are ‘no plans’ to move Champions League final from St Petersburg’s Gazprom Arena despite Russia-Ukraine crisis, after reports Wembley Stadium could host match

UEFA have confirmed there are 'no plans' to move the 2022 Champions League Final venue away from Saint Petersburg's Gazprom Arena, despite the growing crisis between Russia and Ukraine.

Reports had claimed Wembley Stadium was being considered as a possible alternative venue amid the political conflict, but the governing body has since insisted the game will go ahead in Russia as planned.

3

3

The final is set to take place in St Petersburg on May 28, with Premier League club Chelsea hoping to defend their title they beat Man City to win last season.

UEFA have said they will continue to closely monitoring the situation between Russia and Ukraine, amidst suspicions of an imminent Russian invasion of their neighbouring country with the final fast approaching.

The statement released on Tuesday read: "UEFA is constantly and closely monitoring the situation. At present, there are no plans to change the venue."

Reports has claimed that, should Russian president Vladimir Putin launch an invasion on Ukraine, Europe's governing body would have no choice but to abandon plans to host the final at the Krestovsky Stadium - known as the Gazprom Arena for sponsorship reason, with the Russian gas company also big sponsors of Europe's elite competition.

UK health secretary Sajid Javid stated on Tuesday morning that Russia had '' in to Ukraine and believes ''.

As it stands, however, UEFA have confirmed that they are yet to make plans to change venues.

Most read in Champions League

Ex-EFL manager clinches victory over PSG ahead of crucial Arsenal decider

Micah Richards walks out of studio after Inter star's comment leaves co-hosts in hysterics

I'm a Barca legend and Yamal is better than Messi at 17 - this is how he can eclipse him

Champions League final date, time, stadium and how to follow as Arsenal eye showpiece

3

Whilst UEFA are yet to alter their current arrangements for the tournament's finale, security concerns for travelling fans are already mounting.

A last ditch switch would mean this is the second year in a row that the destination for the final has had to be changed at short notice, with the 2021 l final being swapped from Istanbul to Porto after the Turkish city was put on the COVID-19 red list.

Should the footballing body change their stance, Wembley Stadium is said to be one of the venues considered to be in the running to host the prestigious event, which would mark the first time in nine years the Champions League final would be held at the Home of Football.

It has already been agreed that the 2024 Champions League Final will be played at England's national stadium.