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England’s men’s team will embark on their 2028 European Championship adventure at the Etihad Stadium, provided that they attain the expected passage for a competition staged throughout the majority of the UK and the Republic of Ireland.

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

The team are scheduled to play their final two group matches at the national stadium, but, should they win their group, their last-16 tie would occur at the Newcastle stadium. Finishing second would mean beginning the playoffs at Everton’s ground.

Championship Opening and Rally

The tournament was inaugurated at an ceremony in a London landmark on Wednesday night. Senior figures from Uefa and the host FAs were heckled as they entered the site by around fifty activists, who urged Israel’s national side to be expelled from international football because of the conflict in Gaza.

Placards were held up with messages reading “Show Israel the red card” and “You are complicit”, while protesters called out: “Kick Israel out.”

Championship Fixture List

The first match of Euro 2028 will be staged at the the national stadium of Wales in the Welsh capital, on Friday 9 June, a fixture that will feature Wales if they secure a place.

The national stadium will host the penultimate rounds and the final, which will be held on a Sunday in July 2028 with a start time at late afternoon.

It is hoped that an earlier kick-off, which will also be adopted for Champions League finals from the upcoming season, will cater to family audiences and help connect with a broader range of audiences.

Qualifying Teams

The Ireland are scheduled to play their initial fixture at the Dublin stadium and the Tartan Army would play similarly at the national stadium of Scotland.

Each host nation’s squad will enter the qualifying tournament; two reserved places will be reserved for any that do not reach the tournament through the standard process.

Venues and Playoffs

The Birmingham venue and Spurs’ ground round out the nine host stadiums. Each one will hold at least one playoff fixture, with the last eight played at every host’s main arena.

The draw for the qualifiers will be conducted in Belfast, which was excluded as a host city last year when it was revealed the proposed venue could not be upgraded in time, on a date in late 2026.

Leadership Comment

“The event will be a tournament for the fans and a showcase of everything we value about the game – its fervor and ability to foster unity.”

In excess of three million admissions, a record for a Euro tournament, are expected to be made available to attendees.