Euro 28 Could Net US €8oM

Ireland bid is confirmed - but Govt is guarded | Legend Ray Kids will get the bug from event.

- Nicola Donnelly

IRELAND'S bid to host Euro 2028 matches could net the economy €80million - with Ray Houghton saying it would be a massive boost for the country.

The FAI confirmed yesterday that it will be part of a joint bid with the football associations of Northern Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales to host Euro 2028.

They had initially commissioned a feasibility study to host the football World Cup, However, the political indications from UEFA suggested that Europe's governing body would favour a joint Spain/Portugal bid for the 2030 tournament, and so the Irish and British associations chose to target the Euros, saying the return on investment would be just as big.

Former Irish soccer star Ray Houghton said if Ireland gets to host some of the matches it would be a major boost to the country.

He added: “Ireland already lost out on Euro 2020 because of the pandemic, but I think if they win this bid it will be a great way to showcase the country and showcase two great stadiums - the Aviva and Croke Park.

“Youngsters will see the best players up close and personal at the stadiums and that's where they get the bug from. It will be brilliant.