Cardiff is poised to take centre stage at football’s 2028 European Championships, with the city expected to host not only six matches but also the prestigious opening ceremony of the tournament, according to revelations made at a recent Senedd meeting.
Wales has long been confirmed as a co-host nation for Euro 2028 alongside England, Ireland, and Scotland.
However, the latest disclosures by Rebecca Evans, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, have lifted the curtain on Cardiff’s significant role in the upcoming tournament, sparking excitement among Welsh football fans and officials alike.
During the session, Conservative Member of the Senedd (MS) Samuel Kurtz expanded on the announcement, saying: “Six matches of the UEFA Euro 2028, and not just six matches, but the opening ceremony as well.”
His remarks underline the growing confidence that Cardiff will be the focal point of the tournament’s launch. A source from the Football Association of Wales (FAW) echoed this optimism, stating the association is “very confident” Cardiff will host the opening ceremony.
While the full tournament match schedule is yet to be finalised, this development marks a significant boost for Welsh football and the country’s international sporting profile.
Cardiff’s Principality Stadium a Key Venue
The Euro 2028 bid was a collaborative effort between five nations — England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland — and was the only proposal to officially bid to host the tournament. This successful bid was confirmed at a UEFA meeting in Nyon, Switzerland, in October 2023.
Among the 10 venues selected across nine cities in these five countries, Cardiff’s Principality Stadium stands out as the second-largest capacity venue, making it a prime location for high-profile matches.
The FAW had been actively pushing for Cardiff to host not only the opening game but also multiple group matches and a quarter-final.
Ms. Evans described the hosting rights as a “significant achievement” for Wales, highlighting that beyond the sporting prestige, the tournament would bring “significant economic benefits” and create a “vibrant atmosphere” for both local communities and visitors.
Economic and Cultural Impact
Mr. Kurtz also emphasised the broader opportunities that such major sporting events bring, stating: “These events provide significant opportunities to boost our economy, showcase Welsh culture, and draw global attention to our landscapes, communities and world-class venues.”
Indeed, Euro 2028 is expected to attract thousands of visitors, international media attention, and investment into the region, with Cardiff set to shine on a global stage.
Alongside Euro 2028, Wales will also host a stage of the 2027 Tour de France grand départ, further cementing the nation’s growing reputation as a premier destination for major international sporting events.
Next Steps
While the FAW confirms the match schedule is still under development, the final details are expected to be approved and announced by UEFA’s executive committee in the autumn of 2025 as part of the wider tournament launch.
With Cardiff gearing up for what promises to be a momentous occasion, anticipation is building for Euro 2028 to not only celebrate football but also to showcase Welsh hospitality and culture to millions around the world.
