This archive report was first published on 9 June 2020.
As the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, Madrid's mayor, Jose Luis Martinez, has revealed that the Spanish capital is in talks to host this year's Champions League soccer final.
Originally scheduled to take place at Istanbul's Ataturk Stadium on May 30, the competition was postponed due to the pandemic.
According to a report in Marca newspaper on Tuesday, Martinez expressed his city's support for hosting the event, stating, 'I know arrangements are being made, and I want to declare the city hall's absolute support for this Champions League final being held in Madrid.'
However, no official announcement has been made regarding the re-arranged final, with UEFA declining to comment on the matter.
UEFA did confirm that a working group had been set up to explore alternative venues, with an Executive Committee meeting on June 17 expected to provide more clarity.
With Spain being one of the worst-affected countries by the pandemic, the final is likely to be held without spectators, following the lead of major European leagues such as the Bundesliga and La Liga.
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Madrid is slowly returning to normal life, with the infection rate falling significantly.
Madrid's mayor believes that hosting the Champions League final would send a message to the world that the city is 'on the rise again.'
