Aviva Stadium to Host Seven Games at Euro 2028
Dublin's Aviva Stadium will play a pivotal role in Euro 2028, hosting seven matches, including a last-16 clash and a quarter-final. The Republic of Ireland, if they qualify directly, will play all their group games at Lansdowne Road. The tournament, co-hosted by England, Scotland, Wales, and the Republic of Ireland, had its official launch in London tonight.
Casement Park in Belfast, initially set to host matches, was stripped of its games due to funding delays, raising doubts about its completion in time. Last year, FAI chief executive David Courell revealed that Euros matches originally slated for Casement Park might still be held in Ireland, but only at the Aviva Stadium. Initially, the Aviva was expected to host four group games and two knockout games.
However, at the launch event, it was announced that Dublin will now host an additional match, bringing the total to five group games and two knockout fixtures. Cardiff will kick off the tournament on June 9th, with the final scheduled for Wembley Stadium in London on July 9th.
The Republic of Ireland's participation in the tournament is a significant hope for Irish supporters. The team last reached the Euros in 2016, advancing to the last 16 under the leadership of Martin O'Neill and Roy Keane. UEFA has confirmed that places at the tournament will be reserved for the two best-ranked host nations who don't automatically qualify, ensuring Ireland's presence regardless of their qualification performance.
Qualifying directly comes with a unique advantage. Host nations get to play all their group games in front of their own fans. Dublin will host two Group B and three Group E games. If Ireland qualifies directly, they will be in Group E. Winning the group would mean their round-16 game in Dublin, while second place would see them at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Minister for Culture, Communications, and Sport Patrick O'Donovan expressed enthusiasm, stating, 'We all know we had hoped for Casement, but now Ireland gains an extra game, and we secure a quarter-final. Our focus with UEFA is on vision and legacy. We aim to build a lasting legacy for soccer in Ireland.'
The Government is investing up to €93 million to make this happen, and O'Donovan is confident that the return will far exceed that in terms of jobs, tourism, and national pride. The FAI, at its AGM, detailed a successful debt 'rephasing' agreement with UEFA, FIFA, and Bank of Ireland, extending repayment timelines. The FAI aims to be debt-free by 2036, with the financial windfall from co-hosting the Euros playing a crucial role in achieving this goal.
