Ireland push for more of EURO 2028

The Irish government has expressed its desire to host additional matches during the Euro 2028 tournament, which will be co-hosted by the UK and Ireland.

While the Aviva Stadium in Dublin is set to host six matches, there was initially hope for five games to be held in Belfast. 

However, plans fell through after the UK government opted not to fund the rebuilding of Casement Park, a derelict Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) stadium, citing costs exceeding £400 million.

Speaking at the Aviva Stadium, Irish Culture and Sports Minister Catherine Martin emphasised the importance of spreading tournament matches across the island. 

She noted, “The more that can be held on a wider spread... is beneficial for regional tourism,” highlighting that 70% of the 250,000 people employed in the tourism sector work outside Dublin.
Initially, Irish ministers had considered alternative venues such as Croke Park in Dublin and Pairc Ui Chaoimh in Cork after Casement Park's exclusion. 

As discussions with UEFA continue, the Irish government remains hopeful for a broader distribution of Euro 2028 matches across the region.