Why Pique is spending the Champions League final with Katie Holmes

Barcelona defender Gerard Pique is likely to miss the UEFA Champions League final because he will be studying at Harvard University alongside the likes of Hollywood star Katie Holmes and a host of other high profile sports stars and celebrities.

Gerard Pique, Katie Holmes and Harvard professor Anita Elberse. Source: Getty Images

While most footballers are on holidays enjoying their off season, Pique is taking part in a four day programme which kicked off on May 31 (June 1 AEST), costing A$12,500, named 'The Business of Entertainment, Media, and Sports. 

Pique, who has his own celebrity connection thanks to his long-term partner Shakira, will share a classroom with the likes of actress Holmes, NBA player C. J. McCollum, Irish international Rugby star Jamie Heaslip, and former NFL star Rashean Mathis.

The program described as a forum "where celebrities and executives exchange ideas and learn how to create a competitive advantage in their business," has had several distinguished alumni. 

Last year's program included stars such as rapper and actor LL Cool J, actor Channing Tatum, and NBA starts Chris Paul and Pau Gasol.

Speaking to Spanish newspaper El Mundo Deportivo Pique revealed he is likely to miss the blockbuster Champions League final between Juventus and Barcelona's rivals Real Madrid.

"I don’t know if I will be able to watch the Champions League final," he said.

"I will be on a course at Harvard at the time."

Pique, who has won 30 career trophies including a FIFA World Cup, four Champions League tiles, six La Liga crowns and a Premier League title also expressed his desire to one day become Barcelona's president. 

“Over the last few years, (Barcelona) presidents have ended up falling [into disgrace], so I’m going to think about it.”