Manchester will have the honour of hosting England’s opening match of the Euro 2028 tournament should they qualify directly.
In total, five matches will be played in Manchester at the Manchester City Stadium, attracting over 300,000 fans to the stadium, with up to 40% of them anticipated to be from overseas.
A two-minute take-over at precisely 20:28 pm of all the digital advertising screens across the city centre and out at the tournament stadium in East Manchester took place tonight, as Manchester joined other tournament host cities in coming together to mark the countdown moment and to celebrate the tournament and further build up excitement for it.
Manchester is one of only eight host cities to be hosting games during the tournament
Councillor Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council, said: “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. We’re a city where football runs deep in our DNA and we’re counting down the days to UEFA Euro 2028.
“As well as our unrivalled love for football, the city brings together an exceptional network of partners who are working tirelessly to ensure a world-class experience for players, fans, and visitors alike.
“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.
“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.”
Danny Wilson, Managing Director, Manchester City Operations, 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.
“Manchester has a proud history of hosting some of the world’s best sporting and cultural events, including the Commonwealth Games in 2002 which kick-started the sports-led regeneration of this area of Manchester.
“Thanks to our work alongside Manchester City Council and the Club’s continued commitment to investing in world-class facilities, we are proud to continue bringing the best of the world to Manchester, and in turn, showcasing the best of Manchester to the world.”
