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The England national team will embark on their 2028 European Championship adventure at the Etihad Stadium, on the condition that they achieve the expected passage for a championship staged throughout the bulk of Britain and the Republic of Ireland.

The Etihad Stadium has not staged an English men’s fixture since the spring of 2016, when the visitors were overcome 2-1 in a warm-up game, but is almost certain to host the Three Lions for their opening fixture on June 10, 2028.

England are scheduled to play their last two group stage games at the national stadium, but, if they top the preliminary round, their round of 16 match would occur at Newcastle’s St James’ Park. Placing second would mean starting the playoffs at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Championship Launch and Demonstration

The tournament was unveiled at an ceremony in Piccadilly Circus on Wednesday night. Key representatives from European football’s governing body and the organizing bodies were heckled as they arrived the location by around fifty activists, who called for Israel to be removed from global football because of the situation in Gaza.

Signs were raised with phrases reading “Show Israel the red card” and “You are complicit”, while protesters shouted: “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 include Wales if they secure a place.

The national stadium will host both semi-finals and the title decider, which will be staged on Sunday 9 July with a kick-off time at late afternoon.

It is anticipated that an earlier start, which will also be implemented for Champions League finals from next season, will appeal to households and help reach a broader range of fans.

Qualifying Teams

The Ireland are due to play their initial fixture at the Aviva Stadium and the Tartan Army would follow suit at Hampden Park.

The national sides of all four hosts will take part in the qualifying tournament; two guaranteed slots will be held in reserve for any that fail to qualify for the finals through the qualification path.

Locations and Playoffs

Aston Villa’s stadium and Spurs’ ground complete the nine tournament locations. Every stadium will hold at least one playoff fixture, with the quarterfinal matches held at every host’s main arena.

The qualification draw will be held in the Northern Irish capital, which was excluded as a tournament location last year when it was revealed the Belfast stadium could not be redeveloped in time, on 6 December 2026.

Official Statement

“The event will be a competition for the supporters and a celebration of everything we value about the sport – its fervor and ability to bring people together.”

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