Champions League
European Finals: UEFA Confirms Referee Teams
European football’s showpiece month is nearly here, and UEFA has officially appointed its referee teams for all major men’s and women’s finals.
With four elite competitions concluding within a ten-day window. The governing body has opted for experience, stability, and continental variety across its selections.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the referees chosen to oversee each final. And what their appointments signify ahead of a dramatic end to the 2024/25 European season.
Daniel Siebert to Officiate the Champions League Final
German referee Daniel Siebert has been handed the biggest assignment of his career. He takes charge of this season’s Champions League match between
Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain on May 30.
Siebert is no stranger to high-stakes fixtures. He recently officiated the tense semi-final second leg between Arsenal and Atletico Madrid. A match praised for its control despite its intensity and razor-thin margins.
His calm authority and willingness to let the game flow are likely contributors to his selection for the final.
UEFA also confirmed that Siebert will be accompanied by two German assistant referees. This is maintaining a consistent officiating unit for Europe’s most-watched club fixture.
Francois Letexier to Lead the Europa League Final
For the Europa League final on May 20. French official Francois Letexier who refereed the Euro 2024 final has been chosen to take the whistle as
Freiburg meets Aston Villa.
Letexier’s rise over the last three seasons has been steep. Known for sharp decision-making and excellent VAR cooperation, he has become one of UEFA’s most trusted officials for top-tier knockout matches.
His appointment signals UEFA’s preference for referees with a proven big-match pedigree in games that often hinge on narrow tactical swings and high emotional weight.
Two compatriots will serve as his assistants, giving the team the advantage of linguistic and procedural cohesion.
Maurizio Mariani to Oversee the Europa Conference League Final
Closing out the men’s European competitions. Italian referee Maurizio Mariani will officiate the Europa Conference League final between
Crystal Palace and Rayo Vallecano on May 27.
Mariani has been a regular in UEFA competitions and Serie A for years. He earned a reputation for assertiveness and confidence in managing high-tempo matches. The Conference League often features unpredictable tactical shifts and physical contests, making his selection a pragmatic choice.
Once again, UEFA assigned two Italian assistants to complete the refereeing team.
Tess Olofsson to Referee the Women’s Champions League Final
Sweden’s Tess Olofsson will take charge of the Women’s Champions League final on May 23, featuring Barcelona Women and Olympique Lyonnais Women.
Olofsson is widely respected for her game management and composure in high-profile international fixtures.
Her appointment shows UEFA’s commitment to elevating top women referees in line with the rapid growth and increasing visibility of the women’s game.
