Cardiff’s position in the international major-events market has received another boost after the Welsh capital was selected to host the 2029 UEFA Women’s Champions League Final.
UEFA has confirmed that the National Stadium of Wales, known outside the event as Principality Stadium, will stage the showpiece fixture following a joint bid involving Welsh Government, Cardiff Council and the Welsh Rugby Union.
The decision will bring Europe’s leading women’s club teams and their supporters to the Welsh capital, creating another significant visitor economy opportunity for Cardiff’s hotels, hospitality businesses, retailers and wider events sector.
It also adds to a growing pipeline of major football occasions being secured for the city, with Cardiff among the host cities for UEFA EURO 2028.
The stadium has developed a substantial track record in football, hosting 84 matches over the past 25 years, including the men’s UEFA Champions League Final in 2017 and the FA Community Shield earlier this year.
Beyond football, Cardiff has used the stadium to attract major international events spanning rugby, boxing and entertainment, alongside concerts from some of the world’s biggest artists.
Cardiff Council Leader Cllr Chris Weaver said the economic impact of the 2029 final would extend beyond the stadium.
“The 2029 final will bring a global audience to Cardiff, and we know from previous major events that the benefits extend far beyond the stadium, they support local businesses, attract visitors and create opportunities across the city and wider region.
“Just as importantly, hosting this final will help celebrate the continued growth of the women’s game, inspire young people, and leave a legacy for future generations.”
The announcement comes as women’s football continues to grow commercially and in terms of audiences internationally, giving Cardiff an opportunity to position itself at the centre of that expansion.
WRU Group CEO Abi Tierney described securing the final as a significant moment for women’s sport in Wales and Europe.
“The rapid growth of women’s sport continues to inspire new generations of athletes and supporters, and hosting an event of this magnitude at the National Stadium of Wales is a powerful statement about the importance and future of the women’s game.”
For Cardiff, the significance also lies in maintaining a regular pipeline of internationally recognised events capable of attracting visitors and global exposure.
WRU Chief Financial and Operating Officer Gavin Marshall said experience from previous events demonstrated the wider economic opportunity.
“We know from experience that major international events generate significant economic benefits, attracting visitors, supporting local businesses and creating opportunities across the tourism, hospitality and events sectors.
“The impact extends far beyond Cardiff and delivers value for businesses throughout Wales.”
The 2029 final will follow Cardiff’s hosting of the men’s Champions League Final by 12 years and gives the capital another opportunity to demonstrate its ability to stage some of European football’s biggest occasions.
