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The English squad will commence their 2028 European Championship adventure at the the home of Manchester City, provided that they secure the relatively straightforward qualification for a championship staged throughout the bulk of Britain and the Republic of Ireland.

City’s stadium has not welcomed an England men’s game since the spring of 2016, when the Turkish team were beaten 2-1 in a warm-up game, but is highly likely to host the national team for their first match on Saturday 10 June 2028.

The team are scheduled to play their final two group matches at the national stadium, but, in the event of winning their group, their last-16 tie would be held at Newcastle’s St James’ Park. Placing second would mean starting the elimination stage at Everton’s ground.

Competition Opening and Rally

The tournament was unveiled at an event in Piccadilly Circus on the previous evening. Senior figures from European football’s governing body and the host FAs were confronted as they approached the site by approximately 50 activists, who called for the Israeli team to be removed from global football because of the Gaza crisis.

Signs were raised with messages saying “Show Israel the red card” and “You are complicit”, while demonstrators shouted: “Kick Israel out.”

Championship Schedule

The first match of the tournament will be held at the Principality Stadium in the Welsh capital, on Friday 9 June, a match that will include the Welsh team if they secure a place.

Wembley Stadium will host the two semi-final matches and the title decider, which will be held on a Sunday in July 2028 with a kick-off time at late afternoon.

It is expected that an afternoon start, which will also be implemented for European club finals from next season, will cater to households and help reach a more diverse set of viewers.

Qualifying Teams

The Republic of Ireland are due to play their opening match at the Dublin stadium and the Scottish team would do the same at Hampden Park.

Each host nation’s squad will participate in the qualification process; two reserved places will be reserved for any that fail to qualify for Euro 2028 through the standard process.

Stadiums and Knockout Stage

Villa Park and Spurs’ ground finalize the nine host stadiums. Each one will hold at least one playoff fixture, with the quarterfinal matches staged at each country’s national stadium.

The qualification draw will be conducted in Belfast, which was excluded as a venue city last year when it was revealed the proposed venue could not be redeveloped in time, on December 6, 2026.

Official Statement

“This will be a championship for the fans and a showcase of everything we love about the sport – its passion and ability to unite individuals.”

In excess of three million tickets, a unprecedented number for a Euro tournament, are expected to be offered to fans.