Last weekend, Budapest was all about top-tier European soccer. The Hungarian capital once again proved its mettle as a first-class host during the UEFA Champions League final. While Paris Saint-Germain celebrated defending their title on the pitch of sold-out Puskás Arena, everything behind the scenes also went as planned. Authorities, emergency services, and public transportation handled the logistical feat without any major incidents.
In a match that went down to the wire, Paris Saint-Germain prevailed over Arsenal FC. After a 1-1 draw and subsequent extra time, the French side came out on top 4-3 in the penalty shootout.
For PSG, this marks the second Champions League title in the club’s history. Arsenal, on the other hand, suffered defeat in its second major Champions League final, following its loss in 2006.
PSG head coach Luis Enrique had particular reason to celebrate. He claimed his third Champions League title, having previously led FC Barcelona to the European summit in 2015. The medals for the two currently strongest teams in European club soccer were presented during a festive award ceremony by UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin and Sándor Csányi, President of the Hungarian Football Federation (MLSZ) and UEFA Treasurer.
Paris vs Arsenal: 2026 final penalty shoot-out 🎥#UCLfinal pic.twitter.com/snUclZm6nE
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) May 31, 2026
More than 61,000 spectators created a breathtaking atmosphere at Puskás Arena. But it was not just the stadium—the entire city was firmly in the grip of international soccer fans. In addition to the supporters of the two finalists, numerous sports enthusiasts had traveled to Budapest to experience this high-profile event live.
In a statement, the Hungarian Football Federation (MLSZ) gave a thoroughly positive assessment. Both the stadium and the organization were absolutely worthy of the stature of one of the world’s most important sporting events. The federation was able to benefit significantly from the experience gained during previous major international events.
Just how smoothly the collaboration worked was also evident after the final whistle. Champions League winner Paris Saint-Germain left a handwritten message in the Puskás Arena locker room. Next to a drawn heart, it read: “Thank you, Budapest”—an image that the MLSZ shared on X.
2025 = 🏆
2026 = 🏆 pic.twitter.com/CJgaAo472m— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English) May 30, 2026
An event of this magnitude requires months of precise planning.
From Budapest’s Liszt Ferenc International Airport all the way to the stadium, Hungarian authorities, organizations, and hundreds of volunteers worked hand in hand.
Ezt találták a szervezők a BL-győztes PSG öltözőjében! ❤️
Mi is köszönjük mindkét csapatnak!@PSG_inside @Arsenal @ChampionsLeague #BudapestFinal pic.twitter.com/Fv23v202jO— MLSZ (@MLSZhivatalos) May 31, 2026
They coordinated the smooth flow of traffic, maintained public order, and provided fans with information.
Transportation and Investment Minister Dávid Vitézy posted words of praise on his social media page late Saturday night. “We have been preparing for this day for weeks, as the Champions League final places a record strain on Budapest’s traffic and the airport. The staff at MÁV-Volán (state railway and intercity bus services), BKK (Center for Budapest Transport), the taxi drivers, and the teams at Budapest Airport and Hungarocontrol have had an extraordinary 48 hours. I thank all transportation workers—we have shown Hungary and Budapest at their best,” the minister wrote.
The MLSZ also expressed its gratitude to all those involved, sports journalists, and hospitality workers. Special praise was also given to the people of Budapest, who supported the “state of emergency” in their city with great patience and understanding.
Despite the crowds, the situation in the Hungarian capital remained peaceful. The Budapest Police Headquarters (BRFK) reported a safe event without major disturbances, mass brawls, or serious crimes. Officers had to intervene in 13 isolated incidents of lawbreaking; six people were temporarily detained or taken into custody.
Given the enormous number of visitors, this was a very low rate, especially by international standards.
The police maintained a presence in the city and at the airport until all fans had begun their journey home on Sunday.
The National Ambulance Service (OMSZ) also reported positive results. There were no unusual accidents or serious medical emergencies. A total of 62 ambulance units and 200 emergency personnel were stationed at all fan hotspots and in the stadium.
During the match at Puskás Aréna, 40 people were treated for minor injuries or feeling unwell.
In total, paramedics provided medical assistance in 91 cases throughout the city in connection with the final (primarily at fan gathering spots on Andrássy Avenue, Heroes’ Square, and City Park).
Twenty-five people were taken to hospitals for further observation. Medical support ended at 2:30 a.m. on Sunday morning—marking the conclusion of a thoroughly successful sports weekend for Budapest.
Via szovetseg.mlsz.hu; Featured image: MTI/Szigetváry Zsolt
