STOLEN WOMEN’S CHAMPIONS LEAGUE TROPHY RECOVERED IN PORTUGAL AHEAD OF FINAL

May 21, 2025

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Agency Report

Portuguese police have confirmed the recovery of the UEFA Women’s Champions League trophy after it was stolen from Lisbon’s Estadio Jose Alvalade, the venue set to host the highly anticipated final between defending champions Barcelona and Arsenal on May 24.

The theft occurred on Saturday during a domestic league match between Sporting Lisbon and Vitoria Guimaraes but was only reported to authorities the following day. According to a police statement, “several individuals wearing balaclavas forced open a gate” in the stadium’s garage, gaining access to restricted areas.

In addition to the trophy, various UEFA equipment items were also stolen. A police spokesperson confirmed to AFP that all stolen items, including the prestigious trophy, have since been recovered and returned to UEFA.

Thirteen suspects have been identified so far in connection with the break-in. While authorities have not disclosed details of the operation that led to the recovery, they noted that the investigation remains active and more arrests are anticipated.

The incident has raised security concerns ahead of the final, which marks a major event in women’s football and is expected to draw significant international attention.

AFP