Rome finale provides a boost for European in downturn - study

MILAN: The Champions League final will generate an increased boost of 310 million euros ($433.1 million) for the European economy this year, as more people are looking for fun amid the slowdown.

According to a study commissioned by MasterCard, one of the sponsors of the Champions League, a new community of supporters and organizations will enjoy their first dream final on Wednesday in Rome, contributing to the overall income.

"People are looking to divert tension away on such a special occasion," Simon Chadwick, professor of Sport Business Strategy and Marketing at Coventry University in England, who conducted the study, told Reuters.