Published: May 23, 2025, 05:12 PM
UEFA has issued an apology following an awkward moment during the Europa League final trophy ceremony, where it ran out of winners` medals as Tottenham Hotspur celebrated their 1-0 victory over Manchester United. The shortage left Spurs captain Son Heung-min and two of his teammates without medals on stage, despite their key roles in securing the club’s fourth European title.
The incident occurred as more players than expected, including those who were injured and not on the matchday squad, joined the medal lineup. Son was seen lifting the trophy without a medal around his neck, drawing widespread attention and prompting questions about the apparent oversight.
In a statement released on Thursday, UEFA explained the mix-up, citing an “unexpected discrepancy in the player count.” The governing body clarified that the missing medals were immediately sent to the dressing room, accompanied by a formal apology to the team.
UEFA emphasized its regret over the situation, acknowledging the importance of ensuring that every member of a winning squad is recognized appropriately during such a momentous occasion.
