Cardiff set to host Euro 2028 opening ceremony and matches

Cardiff is expected to host the opening ceremony of football’s 2028 European Championships, a Senedd meeting has revealed.

Wales was already due to co-host the tournament alongside England, Ireland and Scotland, but Rebecca Evans, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, lifted the lid on some upcoming major events on Tuesday, including hosting six matches of Euro 2028.

In answer, Conservative MS Samuel Kurtz went further in saying: “Six matches of the Uefa Euro 2028, and not just six matches, but the open ceremony as well.”

A spokesperson for the Football Association of Wales said they are “very confident” of an opening ceremony in Cardiff.

The five-nation proposal was the only bid to host Euro 2028 and was officially confirmed at a Uefa meeting in Nyon in Switzerland in October 2023.

Cardiff’s Principality Stadium is one of 10 venues across nine cities and five countries presented by bid teams, but it’s currently the second-largest capacity of the venues involved.

It was previously known FAW were pushing for an opening game, and there were hopes Cardiff would stage at least three group games and a quarter-final.

Ms Evans said hosting six matches of the Euro 2028, as well as securing a stage of the grand départ of the Tour de France in 2027, is a “significant achievement” for Wales.

“We can be confident that the economic benefits will be significant, and that a vibrant atmosphere for communities and visitors alike will be guaranteed,” she said.

In discussion, Mr Kurtz added: “These events provide significant opportunities to boost our economy, showcase Welsh culture, and draw global attention to our landscapes, communities and world-class venues.”