Tonight is the night as almost 30,000 fans are to descend on the Aviva Stadium, Dublin to watch the Europa League final between Bayern Leverkusen and Atlanta.
Ahead of the decider, it was confirmed that many roads in Dublin will be closed in order to accommodate a huge movement of fans from both clubs, with Gardaí also adding that changes will be made to the operation of some public transport in the area across the afternoon and evening.
Attendees are being advised to plan their trip carefully in advance, with heavy traffic expected around the vicinity of the stadium throughout the day.
Traffic Cordon
Elsewhere, Dublin City Council have confirmed that procedures for matches for the Aviva will be slightly different, due to the possibility of extra time and penalties.
From 3pm today, a traffic cordon will also be established around the area, with residents who have proof of ID or address, granted access.
Gardaí have also warned that traffic may need to be excluded from these areas if the number of pedestrians using the roads when entering or exiting the stadium, increases.
Regarding public transport, DART services will run as planned. However, Landsdowne Road Dart Station will be closed from 4pm, due to security reasons.
It is estimated that around 20,000 German and Italian football fans are to arrive at the Dublin venue tonight.
10,000 fans from around 20 other countries are also expected to arrive, according to Dublin Airport.
Dublin Road Closures At Aviva Stadium
The list of roads facing closures ahead of tonight’s Europa League Final are as follows.
- Lansdowne Road – both sides from Northumberland Road to Herbert Road
- Shelbourne Road – both sides from Ballsbridge to Bath Avenue
- Bath Avenue – both sides from Londonbridge Road to Shelbourne Road
- Newbridge Avenue l Herbert Road l Lansdowne Lane from Northumberland Road to Shelbourne Road
- Lansdowne Park
- Parking will also be prohibited from 7am in the following locations:
- Lansdowne Road – both sides from Northumberland Road to Herbert Bridge
- Shelbourne Road – both sides Shelbourne Avenue to the Podium Entrance.
- Havelock Square – right hand side from bath Ave to Gate 5
- Herbert Road – both sides from Herbert Bridge to Tritonville Road
- Lansdowne Lane – both sides
- Northumberland Road – Both sides from Haddington Road to Lansdowne Road
- South Lotts Road
“wonderful”
Speaking ahead of tonight’s match, Minister for Sport Thomas Byrne has also said that it will help Dublin prepare for co-hosting Euro 2028 with the UK.
“It is wonderful to see our capital city showcased this year, with our hosting of the UEFA Europa League Final”, he said.
“In order for Ireland to both attract and ensure the success of major international sporting events, significant work and preparation over many years is undertaken”.
Tourism Minister Catherine Martin also added that an event of such prestige, would only benefit Ireland.
“With Bayer Leverkusen as yet unbeaten in a historic season, and Atalanta competing at the top of Serie A, it looks set to be an enthralling spectacle for all fans of football”, she said.
Last week, several A list celebrities were also spotted at Croke Park, Dublin, including Brad Pitt and Paul Rudd. More on this here.
