EURO 2028: Northern Ireland to form part of joint bid to host tournament
The joint associations WON'T now bid for World Cup 2030
Last updated 7th Feb 2022
Northern Ireland WON'T be bidding to co-host the 2030 World Cup - it will instead look towards a joint-bid to host UEFA EURO 2028.
The Irish Football Association (IFA) will work alongside their counterparts from England, Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland to focus on a bid that could see a major senior international football tournament take place here for the first time.
The IFA have said that lower costs, similar income to hosting a World Cup and the potential of reaping the rewards more quickly were key factors in the joint-decision.
"Following an extensive feasibility study, which assessed the potential opportunities in international football, the football associations of England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland have agreed to focus on a bid to host UEFA EURO 2028, the third largest sports event in the world." an IFA statement 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 UEFA EURO 2028, and have agreed not to bid for the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
"Hosting a UEFA 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 UEFA 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," the statement continued.
"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."