Ireland-UK bid for Euro 2028 – what happens next?

Ireland and the UK have submitted a formal ‘expression of interest’ in hosting Euro 2028.

Here's what we know about the bid so far...

Following an extensive feasibility study, we can confirm we have agreed to focus on a bid to host UEFA EURO 2028 along with the @IrishFA, @ScottishFA, @FAWales and @FAIreland.Find out more here:

— The FA (@FA) February 7, 2022

The national associations of the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales had been involved in a feasibility study looking at a possible bid for the centenary World Cup finals in 2030.

However, they jointly announced on February 7th their intention to go for Euro 2028 instead.

Mark Bullingham, the chief executive of the English FA, spoke last month about the greater “uncertainty” surrounding the FIFA process. The bidding regulations for 2030 have not yet been confirmed, while the international calendar beyond 2024 is not yet fixed.

The possibility of a switch to biennial World Cups looks increasingly unlikely, but altogether the Euros were deemed the more appealing option.

Prior to their invasion of Ukraine, 2018 World Cup hosts Russia had been reported to be interested, while perennial bidders Turkey were also mentioned.

However, the Times reported earlier this week that there were no other formal bids lodged with UEFA with 24 hours to the deadline, appearing to give the Ireland-UK bid a clear run at it. Certainly, no other association has publicly stated an intention to bid.