Think big crowds mean big carbon footprints? Not necessarily. This summer’s Women’s EURO 2025 in Switzerland just proved it’s possible to host a massive sporting event and cut emissions, all thanks to clever travel planning.

With over 623,000 fans attending, it was the best-attended Women’s EURO in history. And despite the huge crowds, organisers kept things moving (and cleaner) with one smart decision: transport.

Here’s how it worked, what it achieved, and why it matters for future UK events, from football to festivals.

Travel was built into the ticket

Every match ticket came with a KombiTicket – giving fans free second-class public transport throughout Switzerland on match days. No hidden charges, no booking stress. It meant fans could hop on trains, trams and buses straight to the game. No car park queues, no faff.

This simple move shifted behaviour in a big way:

• 66% of fans took public transport to games
• 20% walked or cycled
• Only 14% arrived by car or coach

The result: smoother journeys, less traffic

By making public transport the default, UEFA helped take pressure off roads and car parks. Special match-day trains were laid on. Fan walks were organised to help crowds enjoy the atmosphere on foot. And with transport prepaid, fans didn’t need to budget extra.

The effect was clear: match days ran more smoothly, fan feedback was strong, and crowd management was easier. And while no official emissions figure was published, the shift away from car travel likely prevented thousands of tonnes of CO₂ – a significant win for a major event.

Why it matters here in the UK

Lots of UK festivals and events already offer coaches or shuttles (shout out to Glasto and Reading). But the EURO showed how much further we could go: make public transport the default, not an optional extra.

Imagine if your gig, match or day out came with train travel included. Less driving. Fewer emissions. Easier planning. And a cheaper day overall.

What you can do now

• Look out for events offering bundled travel – and use it
• Consider walking or cycling for local events
• If you’re heading to a big match or show, team up with mates for train deals or lift shares

The takeaway

Going greener doesn’t always mean going without. Sometimes, it just means smarter planning. And as the Women’s EURO 2025 proved, it can work on a massive scale.

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Sources:

UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 a landmark in sustainable mobility: UEFA.com – 25 July 2025

Women’s Euros reach new peaks in Switzerland as final awaits: Reuters – 26 July 2025

UEFA Women’s EURO 2025: Milestones Met, History Made: UEFA.com – 26 July 2025