Cardiff to host opening match of UEFA Euro 2028
Cardiff to host opening match of UEFA Euro 2028
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Cardiff’s Principality Stadium has been confirmed as the venue for the opening match of the UEFA European Football Championships in 2028.
The tournament will be the largest sporting event ever jointly hosted by the UK and Ireland and the first international men’s football championship to be held across the nations since UEFA EURO ’96.
In total, six matches will take place in Cardiff, including group stage fixtures, a last 16 tie, and a quarter-final, with the final set for Wembley Stadium in London.
The UK Government is investing up to £557 million to support the delivery of UEFA EURO 2028. An updated independent assessment predicts the tournament will generate £3.2 billion in socio-economic benefits across the UK, driving job creation, boosting regional growth, and attracting a major influx of international visitors.
Governments and football partners across the UK and Ireland have also committed around £45 million to a social impact fund for the tournament, with the UK Government contributing £23 million. This investment will back community programmes focused on inclusion, wellbeing and togetherness, ensuring the event leaves a meaningful legacy beyond football.
Leader of Cardiff Council, Cllr Huw Thomas, said:
“Hosting the opening match of UEFA EURO 2028 is a tremendous honour for Cardiff and a testament to our city’s reputation as a world-class destination for major events. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity that will bring people together, inspire pride, and deliver significant economic and social benefits for our communities.
“With less than 1,000 days to go until the tournament begins, we’re working closely with UEFA and our city partners to deliver a true celebration of everything people love about the game.”
Secretary of State for Wales Jo Stevens added:
“It is fantastic news that Cardiff will host the opening match of the Euro 2028 championships. Wales is set to benefit from the spotlight and visitor numbers that come with hosting a major event.
“I am proud that the UK Government supported the successful bid to bring the Euros here, and I’m looking forward to the wonderful memories that will be made right here in Wales.”
To mark the announcement, Prime Minister Keir Starmer hosted UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin and England international Tyrone Mings at 10 Downing Street.
UK Sports Minister Stephanie Peacock also chaired a meeting with representatives from the Welsh Government, the Irish Government, the Northern Ireland Executive, the Scottish Government, and UEFA to discuss delivery plans and ensure the tournament’s successful rollout across all host nations.
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