UEFA could move Euros final from Wembley after backlash to quarantine-free VIPs
UEFA today said it has a contingency plan to replace Wembley as the host for the Euro 2020 final unless the government agrees to exempt travelling foreign fans from a 10-day quarantine.
Tournament organisers have been in negotiations with the British government since it scrapped plans to end lockdown restrictions on 21 June.
Wembley is scheduled to host both semi-finals and the final of Euro 2020.
“There is always a contingency plan, but we are confident that the final week (of matches) will be held in London,” UEFA said in a statement.
Ministers mull proposal
Thousands of VIPs could be allowed into England without the need to quarantine under plans to keep the final in London, according to a report in The Times today.
Ministers are discussing a proposal to exempt UEFA and FIFA officials, broadcasters, sponsors and politicians from having to self-isolate on arrival.
Around 2,500 VIPs attending games at Wembley would not have to abide by the quarantine restrictions imposed on ordinary travellers.
The proposal has sparked fresh concerns that it could lead to a rise in Covid infections and provoke a backlash from the public.
Budapest awaits?
The Times also reported that Budapest would be the alternative venue if England’s national stadium does not accept travelling supporters.
UEFA said discussions centred on allowing fans of participating teams to attend matches “using a strict testing and bubble concept that would mean their stay in the UK would be less than 24 hours and their movements would be restricted to approved transport and venues only”.
The governing body recognised the pressures the government faced but said it hoped discussions would reach a “satisfactory conclusion”.
UEFA recently expressed its support for Wembley boosting its capacity to at least 50 per cent for the knockout stages.