Euro 2028 in Ireland

In 2028, European football will set up in Ireland. Alongside the United Kingdom, the Emerald Isle will be one of the hosts of the UEFA Euro 2028, a tournament that promises to be historic. For Ireland, a country passionate about sport but rarely in the spotlight of such a large-scale event, the Euro represents a unique opportunity to showcase its infrastructure, hospitality, and identity.

Joint Organization

A Bid Shared Among Five Nations

Euro 2028 will be jointly organized by five nations: England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland. This is the first time these countries have united to host a European Championship.

This joint bid was selected by UEFA due to the richness of its stadiums, its experience in sports organization, and the desire to strengthen cooperation between the British and Irish nations.

Selected Irish Stadiums

Dublin and Belfast at the Heart of the Tournament

In Ireland, two stadiums have been chosen to host Euro 2028 matches:

• Aviva Stadium in Dublin: located in the capital, this modern 51,000-seat stadium is home to the Irish national football and rugby teams. Opened in 2010, it is renowned for its futuristic architecture and unique atmosphere.
• Casement Park in Belfast: currently under renovation, this approximately 34,000-seat stadium will host several matches. A strong symbol, it will allow Northern Ireland to actively participate in the event.

These two venues will become the beating heart of European football on the island, welcoming thousands of supporters from across Europe.

Expected Economic Benefits

Tourism, Infrastructure, and Jobs

Euro 2028 is expected to generate considerable economic benefits for Ireland. It is estimated that tens of thousands of visitors will attend the matches, filling hotels, restaurants, and pubs in Dublin and Belfast.

Authorities also hope the event will leave a lasting legacy in terms of sports infrastructure, transport modernization, and tourism development. As with other host countries, the Euro is also a cultural and political showcase for Ireland.

Impact on Irish Football

An Opportunity to Develop the Sport

While rugby and Gaelic sports dominate the Irish sports scene, football enjoys a very broad popular base. Hosting Euro 2028 should give a new impetus to the sport, notably by inspiring younger generations.

The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) hopes the event will strengthen youth player development and improve the national team’s competitiveness, which dreams of a return to prominence after making an impression in the 1990, 1994, and 2002 World Cups.

Security and Logistics Challenges

A Challenge Commensurate with the Event

Organizing a European Championship involves colossal logistical challenges. Irish authorities will need to manage the reception of foreign supporters, security in and around stadiums, and transport flows between cities.

Significant investments are planned to enhance hotel capacity, modernize roads and public transport, and ensure a smooth and secure experience for visitors.

A Cultural Showcase for Ireland

More Than Just a Football Tournament

Beyond sport, Euro 2028 will be a cultural showcase for Ireland. Organizers plan to highlight the island’s music, gastronomy, and heritage through festivals and parallel events.

Thousands of spectators will thus discover Irish hospitality, its lively pubs, landscapes, and unique culture. The event is seen as an exceptional opportunity to strengthen Ireland’s image on the global stage.

Supporters’ Expectations

Enthusiasm Already Evident

The announcement of hosting Euro 2028 has generated great enthusiasm among Irish supporters. Many hope to see their national team participate in the tournament and play at home before a passionate crowd.

Tickets are expected to be in high demand, and the Aviva Stadium in particular should resonate with chants and green colors. For Ireland, it will not only be about hosting matches but also about celebrating football as a popular festival.

Comparisons with Other Major Events

From Euro 2020 to the Rugby World Cup

Ireland has already hosted major sporting events but never on the scale of a Euro. Dublin was selected to host Euro 2020 matches, but constraints related to the Covid-19 pandemic led to the cancellation of these games.

However, the Aviva Stadium has already been the venue for European rugby and football finals, demonstrating its capacity to organize major competitions. Euro 2028 will therefore be a crowning achievement and a new challenge.