UEFA is not moving (for now)
While the headlines talk about missiles and tensions in the Middle East, UEFA stays the course. The Finalissima on March 27 between Argentina and Spain is still scheduled in Qatar. “At the moment, alternative venues are not being considered,” the agency confirmed this Thursday.
But be careful, this is not a blank check. The final decision will come at the end of next week. UEFA and CONMEBOL continue talks with local organizers in Doha.
An epic setting under the magnifying glass
The match is planned for the Lusail stadium. Yes, the same one where Messi lifted the World Cup in 2022 after a match for history against France. The symbolism is enormous.
Qatar has a special relationship with European football. Nasser Al-Khelaïfi, president of Qatari-owned PSG, is part of the UEFA executive committee. Local organizers have made “an enormous effort” according to the entity itself.
However, geopolitical reality knocks at the door. If risk assessors deem the threat level too high, plan B is on the table. Spain or another European venue could host the duel between continental champions.
It would be ironic. Almost all the players from both teams play for European clubs. A transfer would make the trip much easier for them.
Let us remember that the first edition of this tournament was at Wembley (2022). There, Argentina and Messi swept Italy (3-0). Now it’s time to defend the title against a young and hungry Spain, with Lamine Yamal as a big star.
The ball is in the court of security analysts. Next week we will have an answer.
