Real Madrid

'Improvisation' is not a word included in the Madridista 'dictionary' and Real Madrid have been working very hard ever since UEFA announced the 2010 Champions League final would take place at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium to have everything ready for the big day.

More than 120 million people will watch the final -to be held on a Saturday for the first time in the competition's history- around the world. The Bernabéu was included in UEFA's Elite Stadium list after passing the organisations rigorous examination and it will house its fourth European Cup final. Previous such events took place in 1957, 1969 and 1980, but the stadium also hosted the 1982 World Cup final.

Real Madrid and UEFA are in constant contact with each other to prepare for the 2010 final.

UEFA highlights the stadium's excellent facilities, perfect for players and fans alike, as well as its great security, which they've used as an example worldwide clubs should learn from. Access to seats is easy thanks to the stadium's numerous wide vomitories and escalators. Seats are comfortable and heating is on during cold days. The Bernabéu is located in the centre of Madrid and is therefore of easy access by public transportation.

The fans' loyalty also allows the stadium to stand out. Brazilian magazine futebolfinance.com recently published a study showing that the Bernabéu has the highest crowds on average in Europe (76,200). It is followed by Old Trafford (75,690) , Borussia Dortmund's stadium, Bayern Múnich's ground and Camp Nou.

Despite these large numbers, the stadium hasn't received any disciplinary measures in ten years and is considered to be one of the safest venues in the world. It houses people from the entire social spectrum and of all ages, who integrate under the banner of Madridismo.

The behaviour of the team's fans contributes greatly to the stadium's safety. That, and the Club's cooperation with police forces, has helped spread an anti-violence and pro-brotherhood message. According to figures from the Club, more women and children come to the stadium every weekend; a true sign of the confidence fans have in watching their team play live in a safe environment.