UK Government has granted £1.4m towards the security operation for the Champions League final in Cardiff. The UK Government approved a Special Grant application made by the South Wales Police and Crime Commissioner to cover the extra costs of policing the European club football night on Saturday, June 3.
Cardiff’s Principality Stadium will host the event which is expected to attract a worldwide audience of several hundred million and generate £45m for the Cardiff economy. The City of Cardiff Stadium will also host the women’s Champions League final (on Thursday, June 1) and around 250,000 people are expected to attend a four-day festival of events during the week.
Secretary of State for Wales Alun Cairns said: “Cardiff has consistently proven its calibre in delivering high profile events on an international stage. The eyes of the world will once again be upon us as we prepare to host the Champions League finals. The safety and security of the hundreds of thousands of people set to flood into the city and surrounding areas at this time is of paramount importance. The UK Government is determined to ensure that Wales, and the UK, are seen in the best possible light on the worldwide stage and the policing of the event will be crucial in achieving this.
“I am delighted that we have been able to provide this funding for South Wales Police. I know the whole city is looking forward to giving visiting supporters a wonderful welcome at what will be a safe and successful Champions League final later this year.”
