Cardiff Expected to Host Euro 2028 Opening Ceremony

Cardiff is expected to host the opening ceremony of football’s 2028 European Championships, according to revelations from a Senedd meeting. 🏟️🏆

Wales was already confirmed as a co-host of the tournament alongside England, Ireland and Scotland, but exciting new details emerged on Tuesday when Rebecca Evans, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning, discussed upcoming major events including hosting six matches of Euro 2028.

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

A source for the Football Association of Wales said they were “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, and is currently the second-largest capacity venue involved in the tournament.

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

Ms Evans described securing six matches of Euro 2028, as well as a stage of the Tour de France grand départ in 2027, as 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.

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.”

An FAW spokesperson confirmed that the tournament match schedule was still being developed and would be confirmed later.

“Ultimately, the schedule is a matter for the Uefa executive committee to approve and announce – which will take place in the autumn of 2025 as part of a wider tournament launch,” they added.