Champions League: Why PSG Won't Be Allowed to Keep the Trophy After Beating Inter Milan

Champions League: Why PSG Won't Be Allowed to Keep the Trophy After Beating Inter Milan

By GlobeStream Media Sports Desk
Published: June 1, 2025

In a thrilling finale that captivated millions worldwide, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) secured their long-awaited first UEFA Champions League title, defeating Inter Milan in a commanding 3–1 victory. Celebrations erupted across Paris as the club finally shed its reputation as one of Europe’s “nearly” clubs.

However, despite their triumph, PSG will not be permitted to keep the iconic Champions League trophy permanently — a detail that has surprised many fans.

UEFA Regulations: Strict on Trophy Ownership

Under UEFA’s official regulations, the Champions League trophy remains the exclusive property of UEFA. Clubs that win the competition are awarded a replica trophy — not the original — and must return the real silverware after a short celebratory period.

Historically, UEFA only grants permanent possession of the original trophy under extremely rare circumstances: a club must have won the competition five times overall or three times consecutively.

PSG’s First Title: No Eligibility for Permanent Trophy

With this 2025 victory, PSG now has one Champions League title to its name — a monumental achievement, but far from the requirements needed to claim permanent ownership.

“While Paris Saint-Germain's victory is historic, they must return the original trophy and will receive a full-size replica as a symbol of their achievement,” said a UEFA spokesperson in a post-match press briefing.

Past clubs that have earned the right to keep the original trophy include football giants such as Real Madrid, AC Milan, and Liverpool, each having met the strict benchmarks set by UEFA.

Symbolism and Legacy

Even though PSG won't retain the original trophy, lifting the replica carries the same symbolic weight. The club’s first European crown solidifies its position among Europe’s elite after years of heavy investment, rebuilding, and near misses.

“This is more than a trophy; it's a statement to the world,” said PSG captain Marquinhos after the match. “We’ve worked so hard for this moment. Replica or not, this title belongs to our fans.”

Looking Forward

While PSG basks in their victory, attention now turns to whether this is the beginning of a dynasty that could eventually see the club meet UEFA’s criteria for permanent trophy ownership.

Winning three consecutive titles or reaching five overall remains a distant goal, but with a squad filled with global superstars and significant financial backing, few would bet against PSG continuing to dominate in years to come.

Conclusion

PSG may not take the original Champions League trophy back to Paris permanently, but their 2025 triumph will be etched into the history books nonetheless — a crowning achievement that no replica could ever diminish.