With UEFA’s four major club competition finals now complete, and only the UEFA Super Cup remaining in August, FSE has taken the opportunity to reflect on the progress made for match-going supporters through its ongoing work with UEFA.
For more than a decade, FSE has worked alongside UEFA to help improve hosting conditions for supporters attending European club competition finals. This work begins with site visits and continues through supporter group briefings once finalists are confirmed, before culminating in on-the-ground observations during the finals themselves.
In addition, this year from the semi-final stage onwards, FSE maintained communication with Disabled Supporters Associations (DSAs) of the participating teams. As with all supporters groups of finalist clubs, the approach included pre final briefings, direct support and communication throughout the finals period, and post final debriefs to gather feedback, identify challenges, and inform future improvements.
Being integrated into match operations allows FSE to observe how each event is delivered in practice, have real-time input, identify examples of good practice that should be replicated, and highlight areas that would benefit from further attention at future finals.
This year’s finals have been a positive showcase of what can be achieved through our continuous cooperation with UEFA. While every final presents its own unique challenges, whether related to stadium infrastructure, local authorities or the specific needs of different fan cultures, we continue to see tangible progress year after year.
The communication with UEFA throughout the planning and delivery process has helped ensure that supporters’ perspectives are taken into account and that practical solutions can be found when issues arise. By observing fans’ journeys, from arrival in the host city ahead of the final to entering the stadium for the match, and then leaving after a trophy is lifted, we are able to identify where improvements are being made and where further work is needed.
In recent years, this has resulted in greater cooperation around assisting supporters organise tifos, improvements to entry procedures, enhanced facilities and services inside stadiums, and better overall hosting conditions for supporters attending finals. While there is always room for improvement, for example, regarding fans material, lessons continue to be learnt, and progress continues to be made step by step.
Alongside our observations, FSE’s Fans Surveys conducted after each final play a vital role in helping us understand the experiences of those who attended. This direct feedback provides valuable insight and helps shape recommendations for future events.
If you attended any of last month’s finals, we encourage you to complete the survey for your final. Your feedback can help improve future UEFA finals for supporters across Europe. And who knows, your club may find itself in a final again one day and it will be you benefiting from the recommendations.
European League Final Fans Survey
Women’s Champions League Final Fans Survey
Conference League Final Fans Survey
Champions League Final Fans Survey
Make our voice even stronger. Join FSE today.