It has been officially confirmed today that the Euro 2028 will be hosted by the UK and Ireland. The confirmation comes in the wake of Türkiye, the only remaining country in the running, withdrawing their bid last week.
With the country removing their bid, the UK and Ireland were the last bidders standing. As such, the tournament rights were automatically awarded to them.
The UK hosted games in Euro 2020, which was held in multiple European nations in 2021 after a pandemic-induced postponement. Ireland were also due to host matches during this tournament, but were forced to pull out due to concerns over ‘Covid-safe capacities’. 2028’s edition will see them act as the only hosts.
In the wake of the announcement that Ireland and the UK would host Euro 2028, it was also announced that Italy and Türkiye will cohost the Euro 2032. Between the two countries, 20 potential host stadiums have been presented. Of those, ten will be chosen to host the competition, with five stadiums from each country.
England also hosted the Women’s Euros in 2022 (postponed from 2021), which was won in dramatic style by a late Chloe Kelly winner against Germany in the final.
Which stadiums will be used during Euro 2028?
The following stadiums are proposed to host matches during the tournament:
- Wembley Stadium, London
- Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London
- Etihad Stadium, Manchester
- Everton Stadium, Liverpool
- St James’ Park, Newcastle
- Villa Park, Birmingham
- Principality Stadium, Cardiff
- Hampden Park, Glasgow
- Aviva Stadium, Dublin
- Casement Park, Belfast
These are subject to change and confirmation, but it would be fair to assume that the final will be hosted at Wembley Stadium. But, again, that is subject to confirmation.
This tournament will be 18th International European Championship hosted by UEFA, and will take place during the typical time period of June to July, 2028.
What about Euro 2024?
Since the tournament is hosted every four years, we still have the small matter of the Euro 2024 games next summer. These are being hosted across Germany from June 14 – July 14, 2024, with tickets now available to purchase for certain matches.
Interestingly, 2023 will see both the UK and Ireland host a practice run on the European stage (albeit in club-level form), with London’s Wembley Stadium holding the Champions League final on June 1, 2024, and Dublin’s Aviva Stadium welcoming the Europa League final on May 22, 2024.