Euro 2028 to Open in Cardiff, Wembley Set for Final as UK–Ireland Host 51-Match Tournament

Euro 2028 is shaping up to be one of the biggest sporting spectacles in recent UK and Irish history, with UEFA confirming that the tournament will open in Cardiff on June 9 and conclude at London’s iconic Wembley Stadium on July 9. This edition marks a major milestone for the co-hosting nations—England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland—who will collectively stage 51 matches across nine world-class venues.

Wembley has been handed the premium fixtures, including both semifinals and the final. Cardiff’s National Stadium of Wales, meanwhile, will set the tone for the month-long championship with the opening match. Other host cities include Birmingham, Dublin, Glasgow, Liverpool, Manchester, and Newcastle, creating a widespread regional footprint for the competition.

A Pan-Regional Tournament Across Eight Major Cities

UEFA unveiled the official calendar and branding as part of its announcement, emphasising accessibility and fan engagement. Every stadium except Wembley will host at least one round-of-16 match. Quarterfinals are scheduled in Cardiff, Dublin, Glasgow, and London, with host nations guaranteed group-stage matches at home should they qualify automatically.

The host venues include:

• Villa Park, Birmingham

• National Stadium of Wales, Cardiff

• Dublin Arena

• Hampden Park, Glasgow

• Everton Stadium, Liverpool

• Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London

• Wembley Stadium, London

• Manchester City Stadium

• St James’ Park, Newcastle

The qualifiers draw will be held in Belfast in December 2027, underlining the tournament’s multi-nation character.

Major Economic Boost Expected for the Region

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called Euro 2028 “an opportunity to bring supporters to iconic footballing cities like Birmingham and Glasgow,” predicting billions in economic activity and a surge in tourism. Forecasts estimate that the event will generate £3.6 billion (4.83 billion euros) for the UK and Ireland between 2028 and 2031.

Governments across all four host nations have committed £740 million (993 million euros) toward security, infrastructure, and overall event readiness. UEFA has also signalled its commitment to affordability, stating that more than three million tickets will be made available to fans across Europe.

UEFA’s Vision: A Fan-First Championship

UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin said Euro 2028 would embody unity and the shared spirit of European football. With new kick-off times—14:00, 17:00, and 20:00 GMT—the organisation aims to enhance scheduling convenience and optimise viewership.

Mark Bullingham, CEO of the English FA, echoed the sentiment, noting that Euro 2028 would leave a meaningful legacy by strengthening local communities, upgrading sports infrastructure, and elevating football culture across the host nations.

With preparations underway and host cities gearing up, Euro 2028 promises not only thrilling football but also significant long-term benefits for the region, reinforcing the UK and Ireland’s position on the global sporting stage.