In a noteworthy shift in the race to host the Euro 2032, Turkey and Italy have opted to join forces. This collaboration could work to the benefit of the UK and Ireland’s bid to host the 2028 event. Despite this, Turkey still maintains its interest in hosting the 2028 edition and continues to rival the five-nation proposition involving England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and the Republic of Ireland.
Joint Venture for Euro 2032
The potential merger between Turkey and Italy marks a significant turn of events in the competition to host the Euro 2032. UEFA has confirmed that the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) and the Turkish Football Federation (TFF) have expressed their intention to unite their individual bids into a single proposition.
The statement from UEFA read: “UEFA has received a formal request from FIGC and TFF to merge their individual bids into a collective one for UEFA EURO 2032. The documentation for this joint bid will now be evaluated to ensure compliance with the bidding requirements.”
Benefits of Co-Hosting
For Italy and Turkey, collaborating reduces the risk that UEFA might face in committing to a single host for the 24-team, 51-game tournament so many years in advance. Italy faces challenges with its aging infrastructure, with construction projects like the renovation of the iconic San Siro stadium in Milan often slowed down by bureaucratic hurdles.
Meanwhile, Turkey boasts a nearly complete stadium and infrastructure due to extensive construction projects over two decades under President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s administration. The option to co-host would allow Turkey, who has faced unsuccessful bids and questions over their hosting capability, a practical solution.
Competition for the 2028 Edition
Despite their collaborative venture for 2032, Turkey maintains its interest in the 2028 edition. However, this edition is widely expected to be awarded to the joint bid by the United Kingdom and Ireland.
This focus was honed after they concluded their plans for the 2030 World Cup against Spain and Portugal, a project that now includes Morocco and Ukraine. UEFA is set to decide the hosts for both the Euro 2028 and Euro 2032 ahead of October 10.
UK and Ireland’s Proposed Host Stadiums
The finalized proposal for UK and Ireland’s bid to host Euro 2028 has been submitted, including a list of ten potential host stadiums.
Shortlisted Stadiums:
- Wembley Stadium (London)
- Villa Park (Birmingham)
- Everton Stadium (Liverpool)
- Tottenham Hotspur Stadium (London)
- Etihad Stadium (Manchester)
- St James’ Park (Newcastle)
- Aviva Stadium (Dublin)
- Casement Park (Belfast)
- Hampden Park (Glasgow)
- Principality Stadium (Cardiff)
Manchester United’s Old Trafford, with the second-highest seating capacity among English football stadiums, was initially considered but later withdrawn from the list. Dublin’s Aviva Stadium is included on the shortlist, but Croke Park, Ireland’s largest stadium, is notably absent despite earlier discussions about its potential inclusion.
Vision for the Tournament
UK and Ireland’s final bid aims to deliver a “record-breaking tournament with more tickets than ever before to grow a more diverse and inclusive game.” The bid dossier outlines a clear vision for the tournament, utilizing the slogan: “Football for all. Football for good. Football for the future.” It emphasizes sustainability and good governance, proposing a match schedule that minimizes emissions and upholds UEFA’s human rights principles for an inclusive, discrimination-free, and equal work environment.
UEFA’s Role in Reviewing Joint Bids
UEFA’s role in reviewing and processing the joint bid by Italy and Turkey will play a critical role in shaping the 2032 event. This assessment will ensure that all necessary conditions are met to guarantee a successful tournament. The feedback and approval process also allows UEFA to work closely with both FIGC and TFF to fine-tune any potential issues and develop a solid plan for Euro 2032.
Why a Co-Hosting Bid Can Be Beneficial
A co-hosting approach, such as the one proposed by Italy and Turkey, provides numerous benefits. It enables a more significant distribution of resources, lessening the burden on a single country. It allows the sharing of infrastructural and organizational responsibilities, thereby increasing efficiency.
The cross-national nature of the event also adds to its appeal, providing varied cultural experiences and potentially drawing a wider audience. For Turkey, this approach offers a pragmatic solution, reducing the risk of unsuccessful bids and increasing the chances of winning.
Preparations and Expectations for Euro 2028
The UK and Ireland’s proposal for Euro 2028 showcases impressive planning, with ten potential host stadiums already shortlisted. This readiness demonstrates a clear commitment to delivering a successful and inclusive tournament.
With a strategy that emphasizes inclusivity, sustainability, and good governance, the UK and Ireland are setting high standards for future tournaments. The plan to offer more tickets than any previous tournaments will potentially broaden the reach of the sport, fostering a more diverse and inclusive game.
The outcomes of the UEFA decisions in October will be eagerly awaited by football fans worldwide. They will determine the course of European football for the next decade and signal the future of co-hosting in major football tournaments. Regardless of the result, the shifting landscape of bid proposals indicates an exciting future for the world of football.
