Meet István Kovács the UEFA Champions League Final Referee?

The man in charge of the 2025 UEFA Champions League final in Munich is István Kovács from Romania. It’s been a remarkable year for him both professionally and personally.

Just last year, Kovács refereed the UEFA Europa League final between Atalanta and Bayer Leverkusen. He also officiated two matches at EURO 2024 and became a father for the first time. Despite a busy life at home, he has had another outstanding season, which has now earned him the biggest refereeing honour in European club football, the match between PSG Vs Inter Milan.

A Refereeing Milestone

By taking charge of Saturday’s final, Kovács becomes the first referee to have officiated in the final of all three major UEFA club competitions:

• UEFA Europa Conference League (2022)

• UEFA Europa League (2024)

• UEFA Champions League (2025)

It’s a proud achievement for the 40-year-old, who once played as a midfielder in Romania’s third division. Unlike in Africa where Referees are hardlu allowed to hold interview, Kovács shared his thoughts with UEFA.

How He Felt When He Got the News

Speaking to UEFA.com, Kovács shared how emotional it was to receive the call from UEFA’s head of refereeing, Roberto Rosetti.

“It was a very happy call. After years of hard work, to be chosen for the Champions League final is a dream come true. This is the highest level for any referee.”

He thanked UEFA, the Romanian Football Federation, and especially his long-time mentor, István Szilágyi, for supporting him throughout his career.

A Special Year On and Off the Pitch

The referee also spoke about becoming a father last year and how life has changed positively since then.

“My son is now ten months old. I travel a lot for matches, but when I get home, I focus completely on my family.”

Childhood Memories and Football Passion

Kovács recalled watching past Champions League finals growing up. He remembers the 1997 final when Lars Ricken scored with his first touch for Borussia Dortmund, and the famous 1999 final when Manchester United came from behind to beat Bayern Munich.

How His Playing Experience Helps

Kovács believes his time as a player helps him understand the emotions and body language of current players.

“I know how players feel during a match. I can sometimes tell if a foul was on purpose or just part of the game.”

He added that understanding tactics and staying fit are both key parts of being a top referee.

Matchday Routine

On matchdays, Kovács keeps a calm and focused routine:

• Light morning walk with his team

• Tea and biscuits

• Chicken, pasta, and salad for lunch

• Short nap in the afternoon

• Music, shower, and final focus before heading to the stadium

Refereeing Team for the 2025 UEFA Champions League Final

• Referee: István Kovács (Romania)

• Assistants: Mihai Marica and Ferencz Tunyogi (Romania)

• Fourth Official: João Pedro Silva Pinheiro (Portugal)

• Reserve Assistant Referee: Bruno Miguel Alves Jesus (Portugal)

• VAR: Dennis Johan Higler (Netherlands)

• Assistant VAR: Catalin Sorin Popa (Romania)

• VAR Support: Paulus van Boekel (Netherlands)

As millions around the world tune in to watch the final, all eyes will also be on Kovács—the calm, experienced Romanian referee ready to take charge of the biggest game in European club football.