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England’s men’s team will embark on their 2028 European Championship adventure at the the home of Manchester City, on the condition that they attain the relatively straightforward entry for a tournament staged throughout most of the United Kingdom and the Irish Republic.

The Etihad Stadium has not welcomed an English men’s game since the spring of 2016, when the visitors were beaten 2-1 in a warm-up game, but is almost certain to stage the Three Lions for their opening fixture on a Saturday in June 2028.

England are set to play their concluding group fixtures at the national stadium, but, in the event of winning the preliminary round, their knockout stage opener would occur at Newcastle’s St James’ Park. Placing second would mean commencing the elimination stage at Everton’s ground.

Competition Launch and Protest

The event was launched at an ceremony in Piccadilly Circus on the previous evening. Senior figures from European football’s governing body and the organizing bodies were barracked as they entered the location by approximately 50 protesters, who urged Israel to be removed from international football because of the situation in Gaza.

Placards were raised with slogans saying “Show Israel the red card” and “You are complicit”, while activists called out: “Kick Israel out.”

Tournament Fixture List

The first match of Euro 2028 will be held at the the national stadium of Wales in the Welsh capital, on June 9, 2028, a fixture that will involve the Dragons if they qualify.

The national stadium will host the two semi-final matches and the final, which will be staged on July 9, 2028 with a commencement at 5pm.

It is expected that an earlier kick-off, which will also be used for European club finals from next season, will cater to families and help reach a broader range of audiences.

Participating Countries

The Republic of Ireland are due to play their opening match at the Dublin Arena and Scotland would do the same at the national stadium of Scotland.

All four host countries’ teams will enter the qualifying tournament; two reserved places will be held in reserve for any that fail to qualify for Euro 2028 through the qualification path.

Locations and Playoffs

The Birmingham venue and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium finalize the event’s nine venues. All will hold at least one playoff fixture, with the last eight staged at the national stadium of each host.

The qualifying draw will be conducted in the Northern Irish capital, which was excluded as a venue city last year when it became clear Casement Park could not be upgraded in time, on a date in late 2026.

Official Statement

“This will be a competition for the supporters and a celebration of everything we cherish about the sport – its emotion and power to bring people together.”

In excess of three million passes, a all-time high for a UEFA European Championship, are projected to be released to supporters.