With the excitement of UEFA EURO 2024 concluding and Spain crowned as champions, football fans are already turning their attention to the next major international tournament: UEFA EURO 2028. While it may seem distant, the groundwork is already being laid for what promises to be another thrilling European Championship. Here’s a comprehensive look at how EURO 2028 is shaping up in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland.
Host Venues and Stadiums for EURO 2028
The UEFA EURO 2028 tournament is set to be hosted by a collective bid from the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland. This joint effort, encompassing England, Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, was officially selected by the UEFA Executive Committee on October 10, 2023. This decision marks a significant moment for football in these nations, promising a widespread celebration of the sport across the isles.
Matches for EURO 2028 will be staged across ten carefully selected stadiums. Iconic venues such as Wembley Stadium in London, a ground steeped in football history, and Glasgow’s Hampden Park, Scotland’s national stadium, are confirmed hosts. Dublin Arena in the Republic of Ireland will bring its modern facilities to the forefront, while the National Stadium of Wales in Cardiff will add to the geographical spread and diversity of host cities. Organizers anticipate approximately three million tickets will be available, offering a fantastic opportunity for fans from across the globe to witness top-tier European football live.
Key Dates for the UEFA EURO 2028 Tournament
While the exact dates are still pending final confirmation, the projected timeframe for UEFA EURO 2028 is from June 9 to July 9, 2028. This month-long festival of football is anticipated to follow the traditional summer slot, allowing for optimal conditions for both players and fans. As the tournament approaches, further details regarding the match schedule and ticket sales will be released, building anticipation for this major sporting event.
EURO 2028 Tournament Format and Qualification Process
Staying consistent with recent editions, UEFA EURO 2028 will maintain the 24-team format that has been in place since UEFA EURO 2016. This format ensures a competitive and engaging tournament structure. The group stage will see the participating nations divided into six groups. The top two teams from each group will automatically advance to the round of 16, alongside the four best third-placed teams. From the round of 16 onwards, the tournament progresses to a straight knockout format, increasing the stakes with each match as teams battle for a place in the final.
The qualification process for EURO 2028 is set to commence in March 2027 and conclude in November 2027. A revised qualification format will see teams drawn into twelve groups, consisting of either four or five teams. These teams will compete against each other in a home-and-away format. Group winners will secure direct qualification to EURO 2028. Runners-up will have a secondary pathway to the tournament, either through direct qualification or via play-off matches involving teams from the UEFA Nations League. These play-off matches are scheduled for March 2028, adding a final layer of drama to the qualification journey.
In conclusion, UEFA EURO 2028 in the UK and Republic of Ireland is shaping up to be a landmark event. With iconic stadiums, a familiar format, and a streamlined qualification process, anticipation is already building for another unforgettable chapter in European football history. Keep an eye on eurodripusa.net for further updates and in-depth coverage as we approach Euros 2028.
