Principality Stadium set to host opening ceremony of EURO 2028
Principality Stadium set to host opening ceremony of EURO 2028
The Principality Stadium is set to host the opening ceremony of the 2028 UEFA European Championships, as well as six matches at the tournament.
The news has come about after a Senedd meeting between Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning Rebecca Evans and Conservative MS Samuel Kurtz.
Wales was already due to co-host the tournament alongside England, Ireland, and Scotland, but the number of matches held at the Principality Stadium has not been confirmed yet.
Hampden Park and the Aviva Stadium in Glasgow and Dublin are also assigned venues for the tournament, while six English grounds will see matches hosted by the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, City of Manchester Stadium, Everton Stadium, St James’ Park, and Villa Park.
FAW boss Noel Mooney had previously said the hope was for Wales to have “four, five or six matches. We’d be really happy and I think some of the other associations would be happy as well,” he said.
Speaking in the Senedd, economy minister Rebecca Evans spoke about the impact large events have in Wales. She said it not only boosts the economy, but increases awareness of Wales around the world.
“Hosting six matches of the UEFA Euro 2028 in Cardiff represents another significant opportunity.
“We can be confident that the economic benefits will be significant, and that a vibrant atmosphere for communities and for visitors alike will be guaranteed.
“We will also work closely with partners to ensure that these events are delivered effectively and responsibly,” the economy minister said.
In response, Conservative MS Samuel Kurtz added that the opening ceremony will also be in Cardiff. “Not just six matches, but the open ceremony as well,” he said.
An FAW spokesperson said the tournament match schedule was still being developed and would be confirmed at a later date.
“Ultimately, the schedule is a matter for the Uefa executive committee to approve and announce – which will take place in the autumn of 2025 as part of a wider tournament launch,” they added.
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