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England’s men’s team will commence their 2028 European Championship journey at the Manchester City’s stadium, provided that they secure the expected entry for a championship staged throughout the majority of the UK and the Republic of Ireland.

City’s stadium has not staged an England men’s fixture since the spring of 2016, when the Turkish team were beaten 2-1 in a exhibition match, but is almost certain to stage the national team for their opening fixture on Saturday 10 June 2028.

England are set to play their concluding group fixtures at Wembley Stadium, but, should they win the preliminary round, their round of 16 match would be held at the Newcastle stadium. Finishing second would mean starting the knockouts at Everton’s ground.

Tournament Opening and Protest

The event was inaugurated at an event in central London on Wednesday evening. Key representatives from Uefa and the host football associations were heckled as they entered the venue by about 50 protesters, who called for the Israeli team to be kicked out from global football because of the Gaza crisis.

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

Championship Schedule

The first match of Euro 2028 will be played at the Cardiff’s stadium in Cardiff, on June 9, 2028, a match that will include the Dragons if they secure a place.

Wembley Stadium will host the two semi-final matches and the final, which will be held on Sunday 9 July with a start time at 5:00 PM.

It is expected that an earlier start, which will also be implemented for Champions League finals from next season, will cater to family audiences and help reach a wider spectrum of viewers.

Participating Countries

The Ireland are set to play their first game at the Aviva Stadium and the Scottish team would play similarly at Hampden Park.

Each host nation’s squad will take part in the qualifying tournament; two automatic spots will be reserved for any that fail to qualify for the tournament through that route.

Locations and Elimination Phase

Aston Villa’s stadium and The North London arena round out the event’s nine venues. Every stadium will hold at least one knockout match, with the quarterfinal matches staged at every host’s main arena.

The qualifying draw will be held in the Northern Irish capital, which was dropped as a tournament location last year when it was revealed the Belfast stadium could not be upgraded in time, on 6 December 2026.

Official Statement

“The event will be a championship for the followers and a festival of everything we value about the game – its passion and ability to foster unity.”

Over 3 million tickets, a record for a UEFA European Championship, are projected to be offered to supporters.