Prime Minister Keir Starmer has written to broadcaster TNT Sports requesting that next weekend's Champions League final between Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain be made free to view. The match, which will be played in Budapest, is the first time British fans will be unable to watch the final free of charge, as it will be streamed exclusively on HBO Max for a subscription fee of £4.99 per month.
Starmer, a season ticket holder at Arsenal, expressed sadness that supporters would have to pay to watch the historic fixture. In his letter, he stated, 'I am a firm believer that the final of this competition should remain free to watch, whether Arsenal have made it or not. Hard-working people should not have to worry about forking out for a subscription to watch a game of this magnitude.'
The move is seen as an attempt to appeal directly to voters, following the government's recent announcement of a VAT cut on entry to attractions during the school summer holidays. Starmer is facing political pressure after poor local election results, with speculation about a leadership challenge from Andy Burnham.
A TNT Sports spokesperson responded, 'We have made all three UEFA finals this year available from just £4.99, the price for a month-long subscription to HBO Max. This represents exceptional value for fans.'
