Why is the Champions League final 2023 in Istanbul? Man City vs Inter Milan match to be held in Turkey

Manchester City are bidding to win their first Champions League title as they face Inter Milan in the 2022/23 final.

Pep Guardiola's team are strong favourites to achieve their long-standing objective against Simone Inzaghi's underdogs ahead of an intriguing clash in Istanbul.

Despite fans from both sides facing a battle to secure tickets, and logistical issues with travel, the final is set to be a showpiece event.

UEFA's decision to bring the final back to Istanbul for the first time since Liverpool's incredible comeback win over AC Milan in 2005 has been met with a mixed reaction, particularly with elections in Turkey creating a tense background to the occasion.

However, European football's governing body has been steadfast in its commitment to keeping the fixture in the country following upheaval to the calendar in recent years.

MORE: Man City treble chase 2023: Pep Guardiola, Citizens eye historic season with three trophies

Where is the 2022/23 Champions League final?

The final takes place on June 10 at Istanbul's Ataturk Olympic Stadium, which is home to Karagumruk and the Turkey national team.

Following a stadium renovation in 2020, the Ataturk has a seated capacity of around 76,000.

Why is Istanbul hosting the final?

The 2023 Champions League final was initially scheduled to be played at Wembley Stadium in England, but the Covid-19 pandemic forced UEFA into a string of venue changes.

The 2021 final was scheduled to take place at the Ataturk Olympic Stadium but was moved to Porto two weeks before the match due to coronavirus-related issues in the city, and UEFA has maintained its pledge to offer an alternative final to Istanbul.

Despite concerns over the host being changed again at the last minute due to political unrest amid the recent presidential election, UEFA confirmed there will be no change.

"UEFA would like to clarify the position on the 2023 Champions League final," it said. "The 2023 UEFA Champions League final will take place in Istanbul as scheduled, on 10 June 2023. UEFA has no discussions to the contrary with any political institutions, governments or national football associations."

Former Champions League final hosts

With Istanbul hosting the 2023 final, UEFA look to be back on track with plans for the next couple of years.

Wembley Stadium in London will host the 2024 showpiece, and Munich's Allianz Arena has been picked for the 2025 final.