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Ireland could host a quarter of Euro 2028 games | reports

The FAI, along with Football Associations in Northern Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales, is part of a joint-bid to host the 2028 tournament. 



Ireland could host a quarter o...
Football

Ireland could host a quarter of Euro 2028 games | reports

The island of Ireland could be poised to host a sizable chunk of fixtures at Euro 2028 - if the bid is successful.

The FAI, along with Football Associations in Northern Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales, is part of a joint-bid to host the 2028 tournament.

According to reports, an update to government members today will reveal that Ireland is set to host a quarter of all games held.

Under the current structure, that would amount to 12 or 13 of the 51 fixtures.

However, it could become even more if the tournament is expanded to 32 teams from 24, as has been mooted.

Sports Minister Jack Chambers is due to brief the Cabinet today on the plans for the bid, though the government has yet to confirm its support.

They're awaiting further information on costs and benefits before making a final decision, though it's believed the bid is being viewed favourably in the corridors of power.

Staging so many fixtures could see another stadium come into play.

Dublin's Aviva Stadium will be a central part of the bid, while Croke Park is also likely to form part of any proposal.

Beyond that, a redeveloped Casement Park may be required to fulfill Northern Ireland's obligations as a host.

At present, Windsor Park in Belfast does not meet UEFA standards as it is too small with a capacity of approximately 18500.

All grounds used for the tournament must have a capacity of at least 30000.

Páirc Uí Chaoimh in Cork has also been mooted as a potential location for games.

The bidding process is currently in the early stages, with a decision not due for the 2028 tournament until the autumn of next year.

The closing date for registration of a bid is in late March, with an official announcement of candidates due in early April.

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Aviva Stadium Casement Park Croke Park Euro 2028 FAI Football Ireland Soccer Windsor Park