Atletico Madrid lodged a complaint with UEFA after fireworks were set off outside their hotel before a Champions League match against Arsenal. The incident occurred on May 5, 2026, in London, disturbing the players’ sleep ahead of the crucial semi-final.
The fireworks started at 1:30am and again 20 minutes later. This disturbance affected at least one player’s rest, raising concerns about their preparations. The match is the second leg of the Champions League semi-final, with the first leg ending in a 1-1 draw.
Atletico Madrid was staying in Shoreditch, London, prior to the match. The club’s complaint is unlikely to lead to UEFA intervention since the fireworks did not occur at the stadium itself. Such disturbances are not uncommon before high-stakes games.
Key facts:
- The score of the first leg was 1-1.
- Arsenal previously defeated Atletico Madrid 4-0 in October.
- Pablo Barrios and Nico Gonzalez were notable absentees from Atletico’s squad.
Diego Simeone commented on the situation, stating, “We’re better now than we were in October. And the hotel was cheaper. That’s why we changed.” Meanwhile, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta confirmed that Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard are expected to return for the match.
While Atletico Madrid has raised concerns over disturbances in the past—previously complaining about pitch conditions at the Metropolitano Stadium—the club now faces an important match against Arsenal.