UEFA statement throws Finalissima into doubt: “No alternative venues”
Argentina are due to face Spain in Qatar, where U.S. air bases have been under attack from Iranian missile strikes.
Negotiations between UEFA and CONMEBOL over the venue for the Finalissima have stalled, leaving the high-profile international matchup without a confirmed host.
The second edition of the game, which sees Argentina face Spain, is due to take place in Qatar on March 27.
As things stand, no alternative location has been approved, and none is expected to be announced in the coming days. For now, the situation remains unchanged, with Qatar still positioned as the default host.
When will a Finalissima decision be made?
UEFA addressed the uncertainty in an official statement released amid growing speculation about the match’s location.
“We are aware of the speculation surrounding the Finalissima, given the situation in the region,” UEFA said. “Discussions are ongoing with the local organisers who have made a huge effort to make the match a success. A final decision is anticipated towards the end of next week.”
The governing body also stressed that, at this time, no official alternatives are being considered.
“At present, there are no alternative venues being considered. We will not be commenting further until a decision is made,” the statement concluded.
London and Madrid mentioned as possible backups
Behind the scenes, the strategy appears to be to wait as long as possible in the hope that the situation in the Middle East stabilizes.
In recent days, however, reports have suggested that London or Madrid could emerge as potential backup hosts if plans in Qatar ultimately fall through.
For now, though, officials on both sides of the Atlantic are holding their position, leaving one of international soccer’s most anticipated one-off matches without a confirmed stage.
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