Scotland part of Euro 2028 bid as UK and Ireland submit interest in hosting UEFA tournament

The Football Associations of Scotland, England, Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland and Wales have told UEFA they are interested in hosting Euro 2028, with no other nations likely to rival them for the tournament.

A statement from the Scottish FA confirmed that the authorities had submitted a formal ‘Expression of Interest’ and said that they believe they can play their part in hosting “one of the greatest sporting events ever held in the UK & Ireland”.

The move is the first formal step in a process that is likely to see the bid succeed, with the expanded tournament being shared across stadia in all five countries.

Hampden Park hosted three group games and a quarter-final when the delayed Euro 2020 was played last year.

Scottish FA chief executive, Ian Maxwell said: “The confirmation of our joint Expression of Interest to host EURO 2028 alongside our colleagues within the UK and Ireland FAs represents our commitment to continuing the momentum of Scottish football and the Scotland National Teams on the European, international and world stage.

“It is also an early milestone in our new strategic plan, The Power of Football, in aspiring to host major tournaments to showcase Scotland as a world-class football nation and venue, following the successful co-hosting of UEFA EURO 2020 at Hampden Park.

“We will now work with UEFA, our fellow national associations, UK and Scottish Governments and local authorities to present an aspirational bid that will bring significant social and economic benefits to Scotland and to our national game.

“This, in turn, will help deliver on other ambitious objectives across the game and reinforce the power of Scottish football.”