Keir Starmer has sent a letter to TNT Sports requesting that next weekend’s Champions League final be made available without charge. The request follows other recent steps that seem aimed at attracting public support, including a government decision earlier this week to reduce VAT on admission to attractions such as theme parks, zoos and museums during the summer holidays. Starmer, who holds a season ticket for Premier League champions Arsenal, informed TNT Sports on Friday that he was disappointed the club’s match against Paris Saint-Germain would not be free for UK viewers. The game takes place in Budapest on Saturday evening and will be the first time British audiences cannot watch the final without payment. It will be available on HBO Max via TNT Sports, with the lowest subscription starting at £4.99 monthly. In the letter, Starmer stated that the Champions League holds great importance for fans in the UK and that its final should stay accessible without cost. He expressed a desire for many supporters to see the match but stressed the issue extends beyond one club. He noted that fans of various teams should be able to gather in homes and pubs nationwide to watch top European players compete. Working people should not face extra costs for a subscription to view such an important match. A TNT spokesperson replied that all three UEFA finals this year are offered from £4.99 for a month of HBO Max access, providing good value along with other programming. The prime minister faces political pressure after poor local election results this month and is expected to encounter a leadership challenge from Andy Burnham if the Greater Manchester mayor succeeds in the Makerfield byelection next month. Labour members have expressed concerns about potential losses if Starmer leads the party into the next general election amid rising backing for Reform UK. Former cabinet minister Liam Byrne said the party remains in a “managerial meh” and warned that failure to improve quickly could lead to further difficulties. Byrne noted growing awareness of populism’s rise and said Labour sits between the Greens, who have taken hope, and Reform, which has captured anger, leaving it without clear direction.
