The Euro 2028 tournament is set to kick off in Cardiff, marking a significant moment for football fans in Wales. This exciting tournament will feature 24 teams across four host nations: England, Scotland, Wales, and the Republic of Ireland. Wembley Stadium in London will host both the semifinals and the final.
Key Details of Euro 2028
- Opening Match: Cardiff
- SemiFinals and Final: Wembley Stadium, London
- Participating Nations: England, Scotland, Wales, Republic of Ireland
- Number of Teams: 24
- Venue Exclusion: Belfast’s Casement Park due to funding issues
Uefa has confirmed that the inaugural game will take place in Cardiff, celebrated as a historic moment for local fans. Noel Mooney, chief executive of the Football Association of Wales, highlighted that this event will unite communities and showcase Welsh football on a global stage.
Qualification Process
Unlike previous tournaments, host nations will need to qualify for Euro 2028. Each of the four host nations will compete in separate qualifying groups. There will be two additional spots for the highestranked teams that do not qualify through their respective routes.
Match Locations
The quarterfinals will occur at four venues:
- Principality Stadium, Cardiff
- Aviva Stadium, Dublin
- Hampden Park, Glasgow
- Wembley Stadium, London
Other venues in England include:
- Etihad Stadium, Manchester
- Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London
- Aston Villa’s Villa Park, Birmingham
- Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium, Liverpool
- St James’ Park, Newcastle
Additional Information
The last 16 matches will be held at each host stadium except Wembley. If England progresses from their group, they will play in one of the other venues based on their finish.
The draw for the tournament qualification will occur in Belfast on December 6, 2026. Debbie Hewitt, chair of UK & Ireland 2028 Limited, expressed commitment to making this the best European Championship yet, promising a celebration of football’s passion and community spirit.
Uefa president Aleksander Ceferin emphasized the eagerness of the host nations to welcome fans into their historic stadiums. Amid the preparations, a small protest against Israel’s membership in Uefa occurred outside the event, highlighting contrasting opinions surrounding the tournament.