As the UEFA Champions League final approaches this Saturday in Budapest, authorities are bracing for significant crowds and potential disruptions. The Hungarian police will deploy nearly 4,000 officers to ensure safety during the event.
Event Details: Teams and Fans
This year’s final features Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) from Paris and Arsenal from London. Each club has sold over 17,000 tickets. However, reports suggest that several tens of thousands of additional fans may travel to Budapest without tickets. Both supporter groups have a history of disruptive behavior.
Designated Supporter Areas
To manage the influx of fans, several designated supporter zones will be established. Major areas include:
- Heroes’ Square – Main fan zone.
- City Park – Arsenal fans will gather at Napozórét.
- MTK Sport Park – PSG supporters are invited here.
Increased Transport Activity and Airport Preparations
Budapest Airport expects an exceptional increase in traffic, forecasting approximately 2,000 flights and 250,000 passengers from Friday to Sunday. This is double the airport’s normal volume. The airport will temporarily open Terminal 1 for incoming London flights. Additionally, the runway 1 will be closed on Saturday to accommodate aircraft parking.
Travel Guidelines
Passengers are advised to arrive at least two and a half hours before their flights during this busy period. Several measures will ease transportation for fans:
- Bus services to Terminal 1.
- Charter bus routes to supporter zones.
- Metro trains operating every 2-3 minutes.
- Increased frequency for tram line 1.
Road Closures and Traffic Management
Road closures will begin as early as 6 AM on Saturday near the Puskás Aréna, Heroes’ Square, City Park, and MTK Sport Park. Specific roads affected include:
- Dózsa György út
- Stefánia út
- Ajtósi Dürer sor
- Thököly út
- Kerepesi út
Sections of Andrássy út between Bajza utca and Heroes’ Square will also be closed to vehicle traffic. Parking bans will be enforced in certain public areas, and any abandoned vehicles will be towed.
Preparing for a Global Audience
The UEFA Champions League final is one of the most-watched sports events in the world. Last year’s final attracted 148 million viewers, surpassing even the American Super Bowl. The police have been working in collaboration with UEFA for over a year to ensure the event’s security and smooth operation.
