Both Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid have indicated that they will refuse to travel to Milan should they win their respective semi-finals and meet in the Champions League final.
The final is due to be held at the San Siro stadium in Milan on May 28th, but the Spanish teams yesterday issued a joint statement saying they will stay in Madrid rather than travel abroad in the event of an all-Madrid final.
The Madrid mayor's office was quick to lend support to the idea, keen for a boost in tourism. A spokesman told reporters:"What's the point in our supporters wasting all that time and money on going to Italy when they could just as well play at home? The match can perfectly well be staged free of charge on neutral ground right here in the park - that way everyone can make a day of it and bring a picnic along." The two clubs later distanced themselves from the mayor's statement, citing fears that a free football match would lead to anarchy; they believe high ticket prices help protect a family environment.
UEFA has yet to comment on the joint statement, but the catering staff at the San Siro are said to be distraught, since they have been practicing cooking paella in case the Spanish sides meet.
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