Croke Park to host Europa League final fan zone if Liverpool reach decider

Croke Park will be used as a large fan zone for May’s Europa League final– but only if Liverpool reach the decider.

Croke Park will be used as a large fan zone for May’s Europa League final– but only if Liverpool reach the decider.

The GAA have confirmed a report by the Independent that they have held discussions with UEFA about the Jones Road venue staging a spill-off event for supporters of the two clubs.

It is envisaged large screens broadcasting the game from the 52,000-capacity Aviva Stadium less than six kilometres away will be installed in the middle of the field.

However, they have pointed out it is contingent on Jürgen Klopp’s team reaching the decider set to take place on Wednesday, May 22.

“It will depend on Liverpool reaching the final,” stated GAA stadium and commercial director Peter McKenna. “Fans will watch the game on big screens located on the pitch from the stands.”

Croke Park’s playing surface will be covered at the time for Bruce Springsteen’s concert at GAA headquarters on Sunday, May 19. The combined capacity of the Hogan, Cusack and Davin Stands is approximately 70,000.

Liverpool lead Sparta Prague 5-1 following the first leg of their last 16 game last Thursday. The second leg takes place in Anfield this Thursday.

The club’s strong fanbase in Ireland combined with travelling supporters would put serious pressure on the capital’s infrastructure.

Many of the hotels in the city and its environs on May 22 are already sold out or unavailable. The Croke Park hotel beside the stadium is unavailable on the day of the final.

Also, should Liverpool not make the FA Cup final on May 25, the Europa decider could mark Klopp’s last game in charge of The Reds.

Among other clubs remaining in the competition are Xabi Alonso’s Bundesliga leaders Bayern Leverkusen, AC Milan, Rangers, Sporting Lisbon and West Ham. The quarter-final draw takes place this Friday.