UEFA confirms success of joint UK and Ireland bid.
The 2028 UEFA European Football Championships are set to come to Scotland, as UEFA’s executive committee confirmed the success of a joint UK and Ireland bid.
The result was announced at a ceremony in Nyon, Switzerland today, where Scotland was represented at the ceremony by Scottish Football Association Chief Executive Ian Maxwell, President Mike Mulraney and Youth Ambassador Isla Buchanan.
Matches in Scotland will be played at Hampden Park, which is among 10 stadia proposed to host EURO 2028, having successfully hosted four matches during EURO 2020. Glasgow will be one of nine host cities across the UK and Ireland.
First Minister Humza Yousaf said:
“Football is Scotland’s national game and a powerful force for good in communities right across the country.
“It is this combination which underpinned the Scottish Government’s support for the successful joint bid.
“Hosting the Euros in Scotland will provide a range of opportunities, not only through the economic benefits of visiting fans, but through a strong legacy programme that will help grow a more inclusive and diverse game right across the country.
“The legacy vision of ‘Football for All, Football for Good and Football for the Future’ captures the positive impact football has in our communities.
“Scotland has proven experience in hosting major events and I look forward to continuing to work closely with the Scottish FA, Glasgow Life, and all other bid partners to deliver a welcoming, exciting and safe EURO 2028.
Secretary of State for Scotland Alister Jack said:
“Congratulations to Scotland, all the home nations and Ireland, in netting Euro 2028 for these shores.
“This is the result of much hard work by a broad range of partners including the UK and devolved governments, Football Associations and many more.
“We have already seen the tremendous atmosphere created when Scotland hosted games during the Euros a couple of years ago and I look forward to more exciting matches in front of the best fans in the world at Hampden.
“It promises to be a festival of spectacular football.”
Scottish FA Chief Executive, Ian Maxwell said:
“Throughout the bidding process, the commitment and support received from our longstanding partners at Scottish Government, Glasgow City Council, Glasgow Life, EventScotland, and Police Scotland, has been pivotal in delivering a successful outcome for Scotland, the United Kingdom and Ireland.
“It is a tremendous privilege, and honour, to again be awarded “EURO” host status, and I look forward to the building upon the existing strength of our unique partnership as we begin the journey towards 2028.”
Councillor Susan Aitken, Leader of Glasgow City Council said:
“Everyone knows the pride and passion for football that is hard-wired into Scottish culture and how Glasgow loves to welcome people from around the world on behalf of Scotland.
“Thanks to UEFA and everyone who worked on developing a fantastic bid across all the nations involved.
“Anyone who was in Glasgow when the Euro 2020 games were being played here will remember how exciting it was.
“Glasgow will be able to dial up the excitement and anticipation for 2028 even more to welcome fans from across Europe for unforgettable matches.
“And while we get stuck into what needs to happen next, allow me to wish good luck to Scotland for the match against Spain on Thursday.”
