The Crux reports that UEFA has announced that the 2028 European Championship will be hosted by the United Kingdom and Ireland, while Italy and Turkey will stage the 2032 edition of the tournament.
The announcement has received reactions from various individuals and organizations involved in the bid and football in general.
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed his delight, saying that hosting tournaments is something the UK does better than anyone else, and this event will be a massive boost for the country’s economy.
He added that millions of people will be welcomed to the country, and it will inspire a whole new generation.
Football Association Chief Executive Mark Bullingham praised the hard work that went into the bid, saying that the UK and Ireland are looking forward to hosting the tournament.
He added that their strong bid was likely the reason they were unopposed in the end.
Noel Mooney, Chief Executive of the Wales Football Association, stated that bringing the tournament to Wales is a special day for them.
He added that he would like the National Stadium of Wales to host the opening match and a quarter-final.
Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said that he is over the moon that Ireland and the UK will co-host Euro 2028.
He congratulated everyone involved in winning the bid and stated that it would be the biggest event ever hosted by the two islands working together.
He added that they are willing to invest in the Aviva Stadium and Casement Park to ensure their stadia, north and south, are ready to welcome the world.
Scotland’s First Minister Humza Yousaf expressed his support for the joint bid, stating that football is Scotland’s national game and a powerful force for good in communities across the country.
He added that hosting the Euros in Scotland will provide a range of opportunities, not only through the economic benefits of visiting fans but also through a strong legacy programme that will help grow a more inclusive and diverse game across the country.
Former Wales International Gareth Bale emphasized the importance of having a major tournament in Wales, saying that it is massively important to keep Wales on the map and to keep pushing forward to better themselves.
He added that he is glad he can be a part of it again.
Meanwhile, Northern Ireland Manager Michael O’Neill and Irish FA Chief Executive Patrick Nelson expressed their delight at the news, with Nelson adding that Belfast deserves to be part of the festival of football, and it’s their time.
In Italy and Turkey, there were also positive reactions to the announcement.
Turkish Football Federation President Mehmet Buyukeksi said that the news makes them happy, and it is a historic result for them. He added that, together with Italy, they can create strong synergies.
Italian Football Federation Delegation Chief Gianluigi Buffon stated that this event must be an opportunity to modernize structures and give one more push to the world of football.
He added that Italy has not had the opportunity to organize such an important football event since 1990, and it’s one of the regrets of his career that he didn’t play a World Cup or Euros in Italy.
Italian Football Federation President Gabriele Gravina said that it’s a historical day for Italy, and after many years, they have the opportunity to organize such an important football event.
He added that it’s an opportunity that could awaken the interest and consciousness of football teams and football clubs to offer their fans and supporters one of the most beautiful stadiums and infrastructure.
