London (Parliament News) – Thousands of Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund fans are flocking to London for the Champions League final at Wembley, expected to boost the city’s economy by £53 million.
Thousands of Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund lovers are descending on London ahead of the showpiece Champions League final on Saturday at Wembley as the London gears up for a £53 million party.
The clash sees UK star Jude Bellingham, playing for the Spanish giants, meet Camberwell-born compatriot Jadon Sancho, who rejoined the German giants on loan from Manchester United in January. Pubs and bars seek to sell hundreds of thousands of additional pints as the game gives a tremendous boost to the capital’s economy. The final of the prestigious European club contest is returning to London for the first time since 2013.
What Travel Challenges Should Londoners Anticipate?
Londoners are cautioned to expect severe travel trouble, with the Jubilee and Metropolitan lines extremely busy. Mayor Sadiq Khan said: “I’m looking forward to a great game, I think there’ll be lots of goals. I think Real Madrid will win it — they are European royalty.”
He added:“ This match kicks off an incredible summer of sport, as London hosts baseball, cricket, tennis and Formula E, alongside our support for our teams at Euro 2024 in Germany and Team GB at the Paris Olympics and Paralympics. Bringing world-class sport to London boosts our economy, showcases our city and inspires the next generation.”
The Champions League trophy reached safely in London yesterday, with fans turning up at Regent Street to minister to a stunning live concert by singers and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Claude Makelele, the ex-Chelsea and Real defensive midfielder, stepped through crowds with the iconic silverware he won in 2002 to a stage.
How Will the Champions League Final Impact London’s Economy?
London & Partners, City Hall’s business growth agency, estimated hosting the final will boost
the city’s coffers by £ 53 million, with the possibility being even larger from high-spend football visitors. About 50,000 supporters of the two finalists — spending on standard £286 each per day — are anticipated at Wembley tomorrow night, with many more trekking to London to soak up the atmosphere. TfL cautions road closures are in result until Sunday, impacting bus and cycleway operations in central London.
How Did London Prepare for the Champions League Final?
There may also be station shutts as a safety step and the Elizabeth line will be shut tomorrow between Paddington and Abbey Wood and there are no immediate trains between central London and Luton airport. Dortmund and Real fans leading to the capital are “most looking forward to seeing the Tower of London, Big Ben — and checking out London’s foodie scene”, travel company Expedia stated. Over 1,500 stewards will be engaged on match day to preserve visitors safe, along with 550 of the mayor’s Team London volunteers.