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The England national team will embark on their 2028 European Championship journey at the Etihad Stadium, on the condition that they secure the expected qualification for a tournament hosted across the bulk of Britain and the Irish Republic.

The Etihad Stadium has not welcomed an English men’s game since eight years ago, when the visitors were beaten 2-1 in a exhibition match, but is almost certain to host the Three Lions for their opening fixture on Saturday 10 June 2028.

The English side are set to play their last two group stage games at the national stadium, but, in the event of winning the preliminary round, their round of 16 match would occur at the Newcastle stadium. Placing second would mean beginning the knockouts at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Championship Opening and Demonstration

The championship was unveiled at an ceremony in central London on Wednesday night. High-ranking officials from Uefa and the host football associations were barracked as they entered the location by about 50 activists, who called for Israel’s national side to be removed from global football because of the Gaza crisis.

Banners were held up with messages reading “Show Israel the red card” and “You are complicit”, while activists shouted: “Kick Israel out.”

Event Schedule

The inaugural fixture of Euro 2028 will be played at the the national stadium of Wales in Cardiff, on Friday 9 June, a match that will involve the Welsh team if they secure a place.

Wembley Stadium will host the penultimate rounds and the title decider, which will be played on a Sunday in July 2028 with a kick-off time at late afternoon.

It is hoped that an afternoon start, which will also be implemented for UEFA Champions League finals from the following campaign, will appeal to family audiences and help reach a more diverse set of fans.

Host Nations

The Irish team are due to play their first game at the Dublin stadium and Scotland would do the same at Glasgow’s Hampden Park.

Each host nation’s squad will participate in the qualifying tournament; two reserved places will be set aside for any that miss out on the tournament through the qualification path.

Stadiums and Knockout Stage

Aston Villa’s stadium and The North London arena complete the nine host stadiums. All will hold at least one elimination game, with the quarterfinal matches played at the national stadium of each host.

The qualification draw will be conducted in the Northern Irish capital, which was removed as a tournament location last year when it became clear the proposed venue could not be upgraded in time, on 6 December 2026.

Official Statement

“It will be a tournament for the fans and a showcase of everything we value about the football – its emotion and ability to unite individuals.”

In excess of three million admissions, a unprecedented number for a men’s European Championship, are anticipated to be made available to supporters.