“The track we made is essentially the sounds of football, done in a Linkin Park way.” — Michael Shinoda
Linkin Park has returned in an unexpected move—but everyone will be watching—and they are not taking it easy.
Instead, they’ll head straight to the biggest stage in European sports: the UEFA Champions League Final Kick-Off Show presented by Pepsi on May 31, 2025, at Munich’s famed Allianz Arena. Yep. It’s real. Linkin Park will perform live for the first time in seven years, in front of millions of fans, only minutes before the world’s most-watched football game.
A Match Made in Stadium Heaven
Each year, the UEFA Champions League Final isn’t just a game. It’s a mega event with hundreds of millions of viewers, iconic goals, tearful triumphs—and lately, world-class music. This year, the Allianz Arena becomes the arena for both football and nu-metal nostalgia. Remember Chelsea’s 2012 penalty win? Same turf. But this time, Linkin Park is the headliner.
“We’re bringing that same fire to the Champions League Final stage for a night like no other,” the band teased.
The show will blend timeless bangers like “One Step Closer” and “Papercut” with new-era fire, including a reimagined remix of “Numb” that—get this—features the thud of a football, crowd chants, and the swish of a net.
The Return of the Kings
Let’s talk about it. It’s been a long road since 2017, when the world lost the irreplaceable Chester Bennington. Linkin Park took time to heal, reflect, and rebuild. In 2024, they made their boldest move yet—welcoming Emily Armstrong of Dead Sara as their new lead vocalist. Gritty. Powerful. Authentic. Their comeback album, From Zero, dropped in November and went straight to the top of global charts. With raw tracks like “Up From The Bottom” and “Heavy Is The Crown,” the band proved they’re not just back—they’re evolved.
“With our new album and tour, we’ve been overwhelmed by the fans’ energy,” the band shared. “Now, we’re sharing that same energy on the Champions League stage.”
What to Expect on May 31
Get ready for more than just a pre-game show. Think Super Bowl Halftime Show—but make it European, loud, and a little angsty. Linkin Park’s set will combine fan favorites with their UEFA remix of “Numb”—built around stadium sounds and big emotions. The show also previews fresh tracks from From Zero, bringing past and present together in perfect harmony.
“This marks a totally new experience for us as a band,” they said. “We’re excited to share it with the world.” The Kick-Off Show airs live moments before the Final kicks off. Fans can catch it via UEFA’s official YouTube or local broadcasters—just don’t be late.
Pepsi x UEFA x LP: The Dream Team
This show is more than a performance—it’s a cross-cultural moment. For Pepsi and UEFA, it’s part of an evolving effort to make football not just a sport, but a spectacle.
“Linkin Park reflects the spirit of innovation and boldness Pepsi embodies,” said Eric Melis, VP of Global Brand Marketing at Pepsi.
UEFA’s Guy-Laurent Epstein added, “We’re proud to enhance the fan experience with unforgettable entertainment on and off the pitch.” This isn’t just about goals—it’s about moments. And this one promises to be huge.
Music Meets the Beautiful Game
Football and music—two global languages that speak straight to the soul. That synergy has powered everything from Dua Lipa’s iconic 2018 UEFA performance to Burna Boy and Anitta’s explosive show in 2023.
“Dua’s ‘One Kiss’ became a Liverpool anthem—who says rock can’t do the same?”
By tapping into football culture, Linkin Park is redefining what a stadium performance can be. It’s loud, layered, and loaded with meaning. Their remix of “Numb” doesn’t just include stadium sounds. It is the stadium—every beat built from the energy of the game itself.
A Tour That’s Just Getting Started
The UEFA Final isn’t the only arena Linkin Park is conquering this year. Their From Zero World Tour is already selling out across North America. Europe’s next, with a massive stop at Wembley Stadium on June 28. South America follows later this year. And just in time for Munich, a Deluxe Edition of From Zero lands on May 16, packed with unreleased tracks and alternate versions that hardcore fans (you know who you are) will obsess over.
Linkin Park, UEFA Champions League Countdown
As the football world braces for another unforgettable Champions League Final, Linkin Park’s comeback adds fuel to the fire. This isn’t just a performance—it’s a statement. From mourning to movement, silence to stadiums, Linkin Park’s journey is one of reinvention and resilience. Their UEFA Kick-Off Show appearance is more than a return—it’s a global cultural moment, electrifying fans of both music and football.
“This performance is a tribute to everything we’ve been through—and everything we’re becoming,” Mike Shinoda shared. So whether you’re in the crowd at Allianz Arena or watching from your couch, don’t miss this fusion of sound and sport. It’s not just a match. It’s not just a concert. It’s history in the making.
Don’t blink. Don’t be late. Tune in May
