UK and Ireland drop bid to stage 2030 World Cup to focus on Euro 2028
England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland will bid to host Euro 2028
Last updated 27th May 2022
The UK and Ireland will not bid to stage the 2030 World Cup and will instead focus on a joint campaign to host Euro 2028, their football bodies announced on Monday (7 February).
The five national associations of England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland have concluded that the continental finals represents a better option than the World Cup after conducting a feasibility study, which was backed by Government money.
They have agreed to "focus on a bid to host Euro 2028, the third largest sports event in the world."
'It would be an honour and a privilege to collectively host Euro 2028'
A statement from the associations read:
"The feasibility study included an analysis of the economic impact, the political football landscape and likely costs of hosting major international tournaments.
"On balance, the five associations have decided to focus solely on an official bid to host Euro 2028 and have agreed not to bid for the 2030 World Cup.
"Hosting a Euro offers a similar return on investment, with the European tournament carrying a far lower delivery cost and the potential of the benefits being realised sooner.
"It would be an honour and a privilege to collectively host Euro 2028 and to welcome all of Europe. It would also be a wonderful opportunity to demonstrate the true impact of hosting a world-class football tournament by driving positive change and leaving a lasting legacy across our communities.
"We believe the UK and the Republic of Ireland can offer UEFA and European football something special in 2028 - a compact and unique five-way hosting collaboration that will provide a great experience for the teams and the fans.
"We continue to collaborate with our Government partners of the UK and Ireland about the next steps."