Mixed feelings: Bilbao misses out on hosting the 2028 Women's Champions League final

Bilbao will not be the host of the 2028 Women's Champions League final; **UEFA** has chosen **Lyon** instead.

## Lyon, the Chosen Host

**UEFA** has decided that the **2028 Women's Champions League final** will be held in **Lyon**, France. The capital of Vizcaya, **Bilbao**, had presented its candidacy with the **San Mamés** stadium as the venue, but ultimately the French city secured the honor. Along with Bilbao, they had also hoped to host the event in **Basel** (Switzerland) and **Istanbul** (Turkey). The choice of Lyon for this important sporting event underlines the relevance of European cities in organizing high-profile competitions.

## San Mamés and its History

The **San Mamés** stadium has already demonstrated its capacity to host top-tier finals. In **2024**, it was the stage for the Women's Champions League final, where **Barcelona** claimed the title after defeating **Olympique de Lyon**. That match broke attendance records, with **50,827** spectators, surpassing the previous record set in Munich during the **2012** final. The prior experience of **San Mamés** in hosting events of this magnitude is an advantage, although it was not enough on this occasion.

## The Impact of Major Events

The selection of a city to host a Champions League final transcends mere sport. These events have become global occurrences with considerable economic and tourism promotion impacts. They place the host city at the center of international media attention and attract thousands of visitors. **Bilbao** has shown growing interest in organizing such major events, as demonstrated by the success of the **Tour de 2023**. The city has also hosted the **2025 Europa League** final and rugby finals, proving its ambition in the circuit of major sporting events.