Páirc Uí Chaoimh could host Euro 2028 games, says Tánaiste

Cork's Páirc Uí Chaoimh could host UEFA Euro 2028 games, the Tánaiste has suggested.

Micheál Martin made the comments after the British government's recent decision not to invest in the redevelopment of Casement Park in Belfast, which was earmarked as a venue for Euro 2028.

He said a new GAA stadium must still be built at Casement Park, and he expects the British government to provide funding to the GAA for that purpose.

However, the Government here has now contacted the FAI to raise the possibility of using Páirc Uí Chaoimh instead of Casement Park.

This is to ensure people have a chance to attend more Euro 2028 games on the island of Ireland.

The Tánaiste said the country must now push the boat out and improve its stadiums so it can co-host tournaments like Euro 2028.

The Aviva Stadium has already been chosen as a venue, but yesterday Minister for Sport Thomas Byrne spoke to the FAI in a bid to "keep as many games on the island as possible".

Minister Byrne said Croke Park had always been in the mix, but UEFA had previously decided not to select it.

"Páirc Uí Chaoimh would need work, as would Croke Park, to host the games up to UEFA standards," Mr Byrne said.

But the required work on stadium seating is not insurmountable, the minister said.

He added that other football associations apart from the FAI would now be involved in any decision to select a new venue.