- Istanbul hosts the Europa League final between SC Freiburg and Aston Villa
- François Letexier has been appointed referee for the match
- It kicks-off at 20:00 UK time at Besiktas Park
Aston Villa are looking to end their 30-year wait for a major trophy, as they take on SC Freiburg in the Europa League final on Wednesday night. It’s a match that holds huge significance for both sides, as Freiburg themselves are hoping to win their first piece of silverware in the club’s history.
In the semi-finals, the Villans were able to overturn a one-goal deficit to defeat Nottingham Forest 4-0 in the second leg at Villa Park to book their place in the final. It was the most complete performance of the season, with every player executing their role to perfection to get Villa over the line.
Partnered with an incredible atmosphere, the match became one of the most memorable nights in the club’s history.
Meanwhile, Julian Schuster’s side also came from behind to punch their ticket to Istanbul against SC Braga. Despite trailing by one goal in the first leg, Freiburg won 3-1 (4-3 on aggregate), after the Portuguese outfit received a red card in the opening ten minutes.
Over the weekend, both teams were victorious. Villa dismantled Liverpool 4-2 to secure Champions League football next season, and Freiburg dispatched RB Leipzig 4-1.
With both teams full of confidence, an enthralling contest awaits the final.
Let’s take a look at the match officials for the Europa League final between SC Freiburg and Aston Villa.
Who is the referee for SC Freiburg vs Aston Villa?
UEFA has appointed France’s François Letexier to referee the final. He has not officiated for either side this season, having operated mainly in the Champions League and Ligue 1.
The 37-year-old is no stranger to the biggest stage. He became the youngest-ever referee to officiate the European Championship final in 2024 between Spain and England. He has also refereed the 2023 UEFA Super Cup and was the fourth official for the 2024 Champions League final.
Who are the assistant referees and VAR?
Letexier’s is joined by fellow Frenchmen, Cyril Mgnier and Mehdi Rahmouni, as his assistants, with Spain’s Alejandro José Hernández as the fourth official.
On VAR duty is Jérôme Brisard, alongside Willy Delajod, who are also both from France. They were on VAR for Villa’s Europa League semi-final second leg against Nottingham Forest.
