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England’s men’s team will commence their UEFA Euro 2028 journey at the Etihad Stadium, assuming they attain the relatively straightforward passage for a competition staged throughout the majority of the UK and the Irish Republic.

Manchester City’s home ground has not staged an England men’s game since eight years ago, when the Turkish team were beaten 2-1 in a warm-up game, but is expected to host the Three Lions for their opening fixture on a Saturday in June 2028.

The English side are planned to play their last two group stage games at the national stadium, but, should they win Group B, their last-16 tie would be held at St James’ Park. Placing second would mean starting the knockouts at Everton’s ground.

Championship Kickoff and Demonstration

The championship was launched at an gathering in a London landmark on Wednesday night. High-ranking officials from the tournament organizers and the organizing bodies were barracked as they approached the site by about 50 activists, who urged Israel’s national side to be removed from international football because of the conflict in Gaza.

Placards were held up with messages reading “Show Israel the red card” and “You are complicit”, while protesters called out: “Kick Israel out.”

Championship Timeline

The inaugural fixture of the tournament will be played at the Cardiff’s stadium in Cardiff, on June 9, 2028, a game that will involve Wales if they secure a place.

Wembley will host both semi-finals and the final, which will be staged on July 9, 2028 with a commencement at late afternoon.

It is expected that an earlier start, which will also be implemented for UEFA Champions League finals from the upcoming season, will appeal to families and help reach a broader range of viewers.

Host Nations

The Ireland are scheduled to play their initial fixture at the Aviva Stadium and the Scottish team would do the same at Hampden Park.

All four host countries’ teams will enter the qualification process; two reserved places will be held in reserve for any that fail to qualify for the finals through that route.

Stadiums and Elimination Phase

The Birmingham venue and Tottenham Hotspur Stadium round out the nine host stadiums. Every stadium will hold at least one knockout match, with the last eight held at the national stadium of each host.

The qualifying draw will be conducted in the Northern Irish capital, which was dropped as a tournament location last year when it became clear Casement Park could not be upgraded in time, on 6 December 2026.

Tournament Vision

“This will be a tournament for the followers and a showcase of everything we cherish about the sport – its fervor and ability to bring people together.”

In excess of three million passes, a unprecedented number for a UEFA European Championship, are expected to be made available to supporters.