All you need to know: UEFA Europa League final
Tuesday, May 15, 2018
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Get the lowdown on the 2017/18 decider between Marseille and Atlético in Lyon.
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Who is in the final?
The right to lift the distinctive UEFA Europa League trophy will be contested by former European champions Marseille and two-time winners Atlético.
When does it take place?
The game will be played on Wednesday 16 May, with kick-off at 20:45CET.
Who are the 'home' team?
Marseille are the nominal home team as a result of a draw made for administrative purposes following last month's semi-final draw. Both teams may wear their first choice of colours but if there is a clash the team designated as the away team (i.e. Atlético) must wear alternative colours.
Where is it being played?
Stade de Lyon, 10km east of the centre of France's third largest city. The venue, also known as Parc OL, replaced Stade de Gerland as the home of Lyon in time to stage six games at UEFA EURO 2016. The stadium has a capacity of 56,500.
For fans planning to travel to the game, please consult our UEFA Europa League final supporters' leaflet, which includes information on how to get to Lyon and the Stade de Lyon itself, plus details of the recommended departure points within the city for fans of both clubs.
Who's the final referee?
Dutch referee Björn Kuipers, 45, will be the man in the middle for the final. Kuipers also officiated the 2013 showpiece between Chelsea and Benfica, as well as the 2014 UEFA Champions League final involving Real Madrid and Atlético. The refereeing team in Lyon will be as follows:
Referee: Björn Kuipers (NED)
Assistants: Sander van Roekel, Erwin Zeinstra (NED)
Fourth official: Szymon Marciniak (POL)
Additional assistants: Danny Makkelie, Pol van Boekel (NED)
Reserve assistant referee: Mario Diks (NED)
What does the winner get?
The UEFA Europa League trophy is, at 15kg, the heaviest of all UEFA silverware. To make things extra interesting, it comes without handles. There are 40 medals for players and staff. Then there is the not insignificant matter of a place in the UEFA Champions League group stage.
How can I watch the final?
The full list of global UEFA Europa League broadcast partners is available here.
What else is going on?
French DJ duo Ofenbach, the brains behind the hit singles Be Mine and Katchi, will perform at the opening ceremony. For fans in Lyon on Tuesday and Wednesday there is a festival at the enormous Place Bellecour.
Who's the ambassador?
Former France defender Éric Abidal. Born in a suburb of Lyon, he won a title in each of his three seasons with OL before a successful six-year stint at Barcelona.