The Finalissima points to the Bernabéu

The crucial final hours of negotiations over the relocation of the Finalissima – originally scheduled for March 27 in Doha – now point to the game being moved to Spain, with the Bernabéu stadium currently the clear favorite to host it.

AS has learned that Real Madrid’s stadium is the chosen venue for Argentina and Spain to play the game between the champions of South America and Europe. It is a global showcase that would now be staged in the best possible setting – in the Spanish capital and in the arena that could also host the 2030 World Cup final.

The latest developments in Doha, with drones and ballistic missiles intercepted by the Qatari armed forces, made it impossible for the Finalissima and the other five games included in the Qatar Football Festival to be played there, including the Spain-Egypt friendly. That is why the cancellation clause has now been activated.

Although other alternatives such as Rome and Lisbon had been discussed, UEFA and CONMEBOL believe Madrid and the Bernabéu are the best options for an event of this scale. The decision is effectively made, pending only minor security details and other logistical matters. Space has also been found for the other games.

Waiting on security arrangements

The fact that Morocco and Ecuador are also due to play that same day in Madrid, at the Metropolitano, means security and policing measures must be reviewed and agreed with the authorities. The Spanish capital is capable of handling two events of this magnitude on the same day, but the operation will have to be carefully organized.

The Bernabéu already stepped in at short notice to host the 2018 Copa Libertadores final after the incidents in Buenos Aires before the second leg between River Plate and Boca Juniors. Despite the lack of preparation time, the event was considered an organizational success, which gives the stadium full credibility in the eyes of the governing bodies.

The last time Spain played at the Bernabéu was in a friendly against Brazil in March 2024, a 3-3 draw. Argentina’s last game against Spain was also in Madrid, although in that case at the Metropolitano, in March 2018, when La Roja won 6-1.

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