ISTANBUL, July 12 – As the UEFA Champions League final approaches, FedEx, an official sponsor of the prestigious tournament, has unveiled a captivating exhibition showcasing four giant cardboard sculptures commemorating iconic moments from past finals. The sculptures, featuring Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Steven Gerrard, and Gareth Bale, now grace the surroundings of the Atatürk Olympic Stadium in Istanbul, setting the stage for the clash between Manchester City FC and FC Internazionale Milano on Saturday.
The Champions Unboxed activation pays tribute to the players’ legendary Champions League memories, capturing unforgettable moments that have defined the competition’s history. Constructed entirely from recycled FedEx cardboard boxes, the sculptures immortalize scenes ranging from audacious overhead kicks to iconic goal celebrations.
Joining the lineup of sculptures are depictions of Steven Gerrard initiating the unforgettable “Miracle of Istanbul” comeback in 2005; Cristiano Ronaldo’s opening goal in the all-English 2008 final against Chelsea FC; Lionel Messi’s jubilant celebration following his strike against Manchester United FC in 2009; and Gareth Bale’s jaw-dropping bicycle kick against Liverpool FC in 2018.
Renowned Canadian sculptor and artist Laurence Vallières brought these cardboard creations to life, showcasing her exceptional talent and leaving audiences in awe. Over several months, Vallières meticulously constructed the sculptures using 130 recycled FedEx boxes, resulting in awe-inspiring works of art. Fans also had the opportunity to participate in the process by voting for their favorite Champions League final goals through a social media poll, allowing them to have a voice in selecting the greatest UEFA Champions League final moments.
Reflecting on the creation of the cardboard artworks, Vallières shared her excitement, stating, “It was a really exhilarating project to work on; creating the sculptures with recycled FedEx cardboard was an exciting new challenge, and it was truly enjoyable to commemorate the historic heroes of previous Champions League finals in such a unique way.”
Brenda McWilliams, Vice President of Communications, Brand & Marketing Operations for FedEx Europe, commented on the activation, saying, “Our sponsorship of the UEFA Champions League creates opportunities to connect with people all over the world through the passion and emotion that football evokes. With this activation, we aimed to capture the moments that have shaped the beauty and drama of previous finals while preparing ourselves for the next Champions.”
FedEx unveiled these remarkable sculptures outside the Atatürk Olympic Stadium on the 18th anniversary of the legendary clash between Liverpool and AC Milan, widely regarded as the greatest final ever. This year, AC Milan’s local rivals FC Internazionale Milano will face off against English giants Manchester City FC in a highly anticipated final. FC Internazionale Milano previously lifted the trophy in 2010, thanks to a phenomenal performance from Dutch midfielder Wesley Sneijder, who graced the FedEx launch event. Sneijder expressed his excitement, stating, “This is a highly anticipated and exciting final.
For the UEFA Champions League to return to Istanbul is an incredible moment for the city and football fans. I have many memories playing in this competition with FC Internazionale Milano that I cherish, and a strong personal connection to Turkey from my time at Galatasaray S.K – it is special to be back here and experience the electric atmosphere that a UEFA Champions League final brings to a host city. I have enjoyed talking through my memories with FedEx and predicting who could be next.”
Football enthusiasts will have the opportunity to admire the sculptures up close at the UEFA Champions Festival held in Istanbul. Additionally, they will be able to meet the artist and take part in a FedEx workshop, where they can create their own cardboard mementos of the final. The festival, spanning four days in Istanbul’s Yenikapı quarter, will offer a range of activities for local and traveling fans to engage with, adding to the excitement and anticipation surrounding the grand finale of the UEFA Champions League.
