Man United vs Barcelona – UEFA Final – May 27

After a long and tense battle it is settled that The Reds will face Barca in the final.  The UEFA Champions League match between Manchester United and Barcelona will go ahead in Rome on Wednesday, May 27 2009.  The Olympic Stadium has been confirmed as the venue, despite fears of further violence and calls for the location to be moved.  Kick-off is scheduled for 20:45 (CET).

The impressive Stadio Olimpico has a capacity of 72, 689 and has been used for many famous sporting events, including the Olympics in 1960 and the final of the 1990 FIFA World Cup.  In both 1977 and 1984 Liverpool FC became continental champions at the stadium.  Juventus was victorious there in the 1996 UEFA Champions League.

The presence of police and security forces is expected to be large to manage the influx of fans because of fears of violence – even though home club AS Roma is not in the final. 

Visitors to Rome who are not there for the match should make a note of the date.  Their visit could be affected in that the sale of alcohol in the city centre and area surrounding the stadium has been banned for match day.  Visitors might also plan to avoid the Campo de Fiori (flower market) on that day as, according to the Foreign Office, it has been a trouble spot during previous matches.

British nationals do not need a visa to travel to Italy but their passports must be valid for the entire duration of the stay.   It is important to take out travel insurance (even if only visiting Rome for one day) and to take along your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). 

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) have issued advice for fans travelling to the match:  They recommend that United fans avoid trouble by not taking the Metro to the Piazzale Flaminio, or using the Ponte Duca D’Aosta bridge.  Walking to the stadium or using taxis is also not advised.  United fans should avoid using any form of public transport other than the special free transportation which will be available from the Villa Borghese to take them to the stadium.  Fans are also warned to stay away from the Campo De Fiori, as this has been a trouble spot during past games. 

Bottles will not be permitted in the stadium (including plastic).  Keep valuables safe - especially your ticket to the match – as this cannot be replaced.  For comprehensive travel information, visit our Travel Guide to Rome and follow the link on that page for updated information from the Foreign Office (FCO Country Advice for Italy). 

GOOD LUCK REDS!