The Irish Soccer Affiliation says it’s “implausible information” that the qualifying draw for Euro 2028 will likely be held in Belfast.
The event will likely be hosted by England, Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Eire with no matches set to happen in Northern Eire.
Casement Park, which has not been in operation since 2013, was initially listed as one of many stadiums to be thought of when the UK and Republic of Eire submitted their bid to host Euro 2028.
Nonetheless, the west Belfast venue was withdrawn from the checklist of venues in September 2024 after the UK authorities stated it would not be providing funding to redevelop the stadium in time for the event.
“We’re extremely proud that our metropolis will play such an essential function in delivering what would be the best-ever EURO — one which celebrates ardour, inclusivity and the facility of soccer to carry individuals collectively,” Irish FA president Conrad Kirkwood stated.
“It is a proud second for the Irish FA and for everybody who loves soccer right here in Northern Eire.”
With the opening recreation of the event set for Cardiff and matches to be performed in stadiums throughout England, Scotland and the Republic of Eire, the qualifying draw is, to this point, the one official Euro 2028 engagement set to happen in Northern Eire.
It is going to happen on 6 December 2026 on the ICC Belfast.
“It is an actual privilege to host the qualifying draw for Uefa Euro 2028 — a key milestone in what guarantees to be a memorable, world class event,” Irish FA CEO Patrick Nelson stated.
“We’ll welcome UEFA’s management, nationwide associations and groups to Belfast, giving them the prospect to expertise the whole lot our metropolis and ICC Belfast have to supply.
“It is implausible information for Belfast, for Northern Eire and for soccer throughout these islands.”
