A joint UK and Ireland bid to host the men’s European Championship in 2028 moved a step closer to being confirmed on Friday, after Turkey and Italy announced they were to bid together to stage the tournament in 2032. Turkey were the sole competitor for the plan proposed by England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland to host the 24-team tournament in five years.
In April, when confirming the UK-Ireland offer, the chair of the FA, Debbie Hewitt, said a successful bid would mean a “record-breaking and unforgettable” European Championship. “We will focus on growing football, connecting with and engaging new fans, players and volunteers,” she said. “Together, we want Uefa Euro 2028 to be the catalyst for a new and sustainable era for football, from the grassroots to the very top of the European game.”
Initially, the former Olympic Stadium was on the shortlist, which consisted of 14 grounds.
Old Trafford in Manchester, Croke Park in Dublin, the Stadium of Light in Sunderland were also on the original longer list, and also all failed to make the final cut.
No reason has been given as yet as to why the London Stadium, which can seat 62,500 supporters, was not chosen.
If England and Ireland are granted host duties, matches will take place at:
- Wembley Stadium – London
- National Stadium of Wales – Cardiff
- Tottenham Hotspur Stadium – London
- City of Manchester Stadium – Manchester
- Everton Stadium – Liverpool
- St James’ Park – Newcastle
- Villa Park – Birmingham
- Hampden Park – Glasgow
- Dublin Arena – Dublin
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