UEFA has issues with Champions League switch to London, Porto a backup

The UCL final is set to be moved from Istanbul after Turkey was added to England’s “red list” of countries with severe coronavirus outbreaks.

The UCL final is set to be moved to England's national soccer stadium from Istanbul after Turkey was added to England's “red list” of countries with severe coronavirus outbreaks.

The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) has given the British government until Tuesday to offer the travel waivers it requires to move the Champions League final to Wembley or the all-English game could be played in Portugal instead.

The May 29 showpiece is set to be moved from Istanbul after Turkey was added to England’s “red list” of countries with severe coronavirus outbreaks.

Portugal is on England’s “green list” of 12 low-risk territories where people aren’t required to quarantine upon their return from next Monday, making it easier for thousands of fans to be able to travel. The coastal city of Porto is now one of the backup options after UEFA hit snags with its preferred location of London.

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The governing body held talks with the British government on Monday but was unable to secure exemptions from quarantine for everyone they want to be able to attend a final in London — including sponsors, guests and media.

Switzerland, where the UEFA is based, is among the amber list of countries from which people arriving in England have to quarantine for 10 days.