Ample fan zones, over two thousand law enforcement personnel: Grand climax anticipated in Munich - Multiple fan areas, 2,000 law enforcement personnel, conclusive event planned in Munich
Munich Prepares for Champions League Final: Thousands of Fans, 2,000 Police Officers on Duty
Tens of thousands of football fans are expected to descend upon Munich this weekend for the Champions League final, with a slight majority projected to be from Italy, given the strong rail connection between Milan and the city. The Bavarian Hotel and Restaurant Association anticipates approximately 90,000 overnight stays from external guests.
Thirteen years ago, Munich experienced collective mourning after FC Bayern Munich lost the "home final" against FC Chelsea from London. This year, fans from France and Italy will gather in three large fan zones to watch Inter Milan and Paris Saint-Germain face off at the Allianz Arena in Fröttmaning on Saturday evening.
The Olympic Park will host the "Champions Festival," with up to 25,000 people permitted to attend. Another 18,000 spectators can celebrate or mourn at the "PSG Fan Meeting Point" on Königsplatz, while 16,500 people can be accommodated at the "Inter Fanzone" in Odeonsplatz. Both areas will open at 11 AM.
Over 2,000 police officers will be stationed across the city to ensure public safety, with support from officers throughout Bavaria. Despite a lack of specific threat assessments, authorities have expressed concern about the global political situation, including the Ukraine war and the Middle East conflict, leading to an assumed high abstract threat to this international sporting event.
Fans are projected to spend large sums of money in Munich, in turn generating an estimated 46.2 million euros in additional income for the city. Events throughout the week include a legends tournament at the SAP Garden in the Olympic Park featuring former stars like Franck Ribéry, Lothar Matthäus, and Luis Figo.
Security measures have been influenced by past events, such as the 2022 UEFA Champions League Final in Paris, where security issues arose. As a result, Paris also saw a significant police presence to manage fan activity, even though the match was held in Munich. Bags larger than A4 size, professional cameras, and cane umbrellas are prohibited at the stadium, and attendees are required to carry valid identification. The Allianz Arena, with a capacity of 64,500 spectators, will be under surveillance with helicopters patrolling the surrounding area.
Community aid might be necessary to accommodate the influx of 90,000 visitors, generating approximately 46.2 million euros in financial aid for local businesses. Meanwhile, financial aid may be vital for ensuring public safety, with over 2,000 police officers on duty to manage the large gathering of football fans from various countries, including France and Italy.
