Linkin Park to Headline UEFA Champions League Final Kick-Off Show by Pepsi®

A Legendary Collaboration: Linkin Park at the UEFA Champions League Finale

In a significant announcement, Pepsi® and UC3 have revealed that the iconic band Linkin Park will take center stage as the headliner for the UEFA Champions League Final Kick-Off Show presented by Pepsi. The event is scheduled to take place on May 31 at the Munich Football Arena, just minutes before one of the most prestigious matches in club football. This year marks another exciting chapter in the long-standing collaboration between music and sports, with Linkin Park bringing their electrifying sound to a massive audience worldwide.

Linkin Park is celebrating a triumphant return to the music scene with their recent album, From Zero, which marks their first new music release in seven years. The album quickly ascended to the top of music charts globally, featuring hit singles like Heavy Is The Crown and The Emptiness Machine. The success of their songs is impressive, with The Emptiness Machine recognized as the most streamed rock song of 2024, amassing over 250 million streams. Billboard reported that Linkin Park was the solitary rock band to break the remarkable threshold of 2 billion annual streams in 2024.

Currently, the band is gearing up to release their latest single, Up From The Bottom, from the upcoming deluxe edition of From Zero, which is set to drop on May 16. As part of their in-progress From Zero World Tour, Linkin Park will kick off their journey in Austin, Texas on April 26, continue through sold-out arenas across Europe in the summer, and culminate with performances in South America in the fall.

The highlight of their European tour will undoubtedly be their appearance at the UEFA Champions League Final Kick-Off Show. Linkin Park promises to deliver a memorable setlist that will feature timeless classics alongside hits from their latest album. They've even crafted an exhilarating new remix to tie in with this occasion, connecting their unmistakable rock sound with the vibrant culture of European football.

This unique track features recognizable riffs from their renowned hit Numb, reimagined with elements that celebrate the excitement of the UEFA Champions League. Sound effects like the thud of a soccer ball, the whistle of a free kick, and the passionate cheers of fans will complement their powerful sound, creating an immersive experience for all attending and watching.

The promotional short film accompanying this announcement captures the spirit of the UEFA Champions League Final Kick-Off Show, showcasing a blend of fast-paced football action and the electric live performance that Linkin Park is known for. “With our new album and ongoing tour, we’re overwhelmed by the energy and excitement of our fans. We can hardly wait to share that same thrill with the audience at the UEFA Champions League Final Kick-Off Show presented by Pepsi,” stated the band. They expressed excitement at the unique opportunity to perform alongside one of the biggest sporting events of the year, uniting both music and football lovers.

Eric Melis, Vice President of Global Brand Marketing at PepsiCo, expressed pride in having one of the 21st century’s most influential rock bands as the headliner for the show. This year marks the ninth occasion for Pepsi to bring together millions of viewers around the globe, promising a show unlike any other. “Linkin Park will provide a performance live from the Munich Football Arena that will leave a lasting impression. We’re thrilled to collaborate with artists who embody our 'Thirsty For More' philosophy,” Melis added.

Guy-Laurent Epstein, Co-Managing Director of UC3, reinforced the monumental significance of the UEFA Champions League Final Kick-Off Show, promising spectacular entertainment that enhances the fan experience both at the stadium and for viewers worldwide.

The UEFA Champions League Final Kick-Off Show is not just about sport; it’s an annual celebration of music and culture that offers unforgettable entertainment. Fans worldwide can watch the show through their local TV channels and on the official UEFA YouTube channel right before the kickoff of one of the most anticipated matches in European club football. Follow Pepsi on Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and Facebook to stay updated with the latest news. Join the conversation and excitement under the hashtag #PEPSIKICKOFFSHOW!

With Linkin Park headlining, the UEFA Champions League Final Kick-Off Show is bound to be an unmissable event that merges the worlds of rock and football in an exhilarating celebration of culture, sport, and entertainment.