The UK and the Republic of Ireland have been confirmed as hosts of Euro 2028.
The move was widely expected after Turkey, who were the only rival bidders, withdrew last week to focus on staging the event four years later alongside Italy.
UEFA approval was still required but that came on Tuesday, meaning preparations can now begin.
Here we go!#EURO2028 will be hosted by the UK & Ireland ⚽️
For all, for good, for the future! #UKIRELAND2028 PIC.TWITTER.COM/LAUH1BI3BB
— England Football (@EnglandFootball) OCTOBER 10, 2023
Turkey’s decision to focus on staging Euro 2032 was also vindicated as they and Italy were confirmed as the hosts in nine years’ time.
The two countries put forward a list of 20 potential host stadiums, of which 10 will be chosen, five per country, by October 2026.
The 10 venues for Euro 2028 are already known:
England
Wembley (London), Tottenham Hotspur Stadium (London), Etihad Stadium (Manchester), Villa Park (Birmingham), St James’ Park (Newcastle), Bramley Moore Dock (Liverpool).
Scotland
Hampden Park (Glasgow)
Wales
Principality Stadium (Cardiff)
Northern Ireland
Casement Park (Belfast)
Republic of Ireland
Dublin Arena (Dublin)
Of the 10, two are yet to be completed – Everton’s new ground at Bramley Moore Dock and Casement Park in Belfast.
Although the match schedule has yet to be announced, it has been widely reported that the Principality Stadium will stage the opening game with Wembley pencilled in for the semis and final.
“Nothing is ever a formality even right until the last minute,” said Debbie Hewitt, chair of the English FA.
“We took nothing for granted. There’s so many things that you might think might divide, but actually it has really unified. I think that will be something that we all feel very proud of.”
