Manchester kicks off countdown to UEFA EURO 2028
The kick-off to UEFA EURO 2028 got officially underway earlier this month with advertisement boards lighting up across the city ahead of matches.
The tournament, which will be jointly-held in the UK and Ireland, will see Manchester as one of eight host cities and the destination of England’s opening game of the tournament, should they directly.
The boards in host cities lit up at 20.28 pm on 13 November, with 120 screens across the Manchester City Centre and around the City of Manchester Stadium officially kicking off the countdown to summer 2028.
The UEFA EUROs is recognised as the third largest event in the world, with 2028’s edition expected to draw over 3m visitors into the UK and attract a global audience of over five billion viewers, in anticipation of some of Europe’s best talents taking centre stage to compete for the prestigious trophy.
Credit: Manchester City Council
“Manchester is known the world over as a great footballing city and we could not be more excited to be welcoming such a prestigious tournament, which is enjoyed by millions of fans around the world, to our city,” said Councillor Bev Craig, leader of Manchester City Council.
In total, five matches are expected to be played at the City of Manchester Stadium, which is the home ground for Manchester City Football Club. It is expected to attract over 300,000 fans, with up to 40% of these anticipated to be from overseas.
Hundreds of thousands more fans are expected to visit the city to complete a football takeover of Greater Manchester. These will include fan festivals, where fans will have a chance to maximise their participation.
Economic impact on Manchester
The tournament is projected to generate an economic impact of over £200m for the city.
Councillor Craig said: “As well as enjoying some fantastic football from world-class players at the top of their game right here on our doorstep, we’ll be going all out to maximise the benefits to Manchester of hosting the tournament.
“And with a projected economic boost to the local economy of over £200m, it’s an absolute win-win for the city and for local residents.”
Manchester is expected to partner with various organisations in build-up to the tournament in 2028, to maximise social benefits for the local community, including investment for grassroots sports.
It will also involve creating more jobs and opportunities to grow the game through increasing the number of referees, coaches, and volunteers.
“It’s important also to acknowledge the ongoing investment in facilities and development of the area around the stadium in east Manchester into a world class sports and entertainment campus – which is what enabled us to put the strongest possible bid in to host the tournament, and ultimately led to us being chosen as one of the tournament’s host cities,” said Councillor Craig.
Excitement is growing
Danny Wilson, managing director for Manchester City’s operations department, said: “Hosting five matches as part of EURO 2028, including England’s opening match should they qualify directly, will be a special moment for the Club, the city, and most importantly – its people.”
Credit: Manchester City Council
Wilson also said the Club’s continued commitment to investment in the local community is key to their plans, alongside help from Manchester City Council.
“We are proud to continue bringing the best of the world to Manchester, and in turn, showcasing the best of Manchester to the world.”