The host city of Innsbruck bid a fond farewell to its UEFA EURO 2008™ guests following the final game in unique style.

City light
After the last match at the Stadion Tivoli Neu, between Russia and Sweden, those responsible at the Host City had a very special farewell present for all the teams that had played in Tyrol and, of course, the thousands of fans who had made each match such special occasions. In the mountains, to the north of the city, a gigantic heart-shaped bonfire was ignited as the final whistle blew. Mountain fires have a very unique and long tradition in Tyrol.

'A super event'
"Geographically, Innsbruck was seen as the heart of the EURO," explained Hannes Bodner, UEFA EURO 2008™ coordinator from Land Tyrol. "With that in mind, we ignited this symbolic heart as a way of thanking the fans from all countries for their geniality and warmth. It was an awesome festival."
Innsbruck's Host City coordinator, Christoph Platzgummer, was also very satisfied with the proceedings. "So far we have experienced a super event with no great problems. The EURO has lent the city an unbelievable image, which has travelled across the globe."

Long-term gains
Platzgummer also sees great advantages for the local citizens. He added: "Aside from experiencing the world's third biggest sporting event up close, there are also long-term advantages, such as the improvement of local public transport, which will remain." Over the two weeks there were a total of 320,000 visitors to the city. The participation in the fan marches, which took place during the EURO in Innsbruck, was unrivalled. Over 50,000 enthusiastic football supporters took part in the two Swedish Parades and the Tyrol March. On the whole, Innsbruck's UEFA EURO 2008™ was a complete success.