Ireland is set to host the UEFA European Championships in 2028, after the Government formally backed a joint-bid of the five football associations of the UK and Ireland.
It is believed that the UK and Ireland bid will be unopposed, meaning that Dublin will host a number of games at the prestigious tournament.
A Government spokesperson confirmed their backing of the bid on Wednesday morning, saying: "Following the detailed work undertaken by the Government partners and five Football Associations of Ireland and the UK in relation to the feasibility of hosting the UEFA European Championships 2028, the Government has reviewed the current estimated costs and benefits associated with the event and has agreed to support the submission of an expression of interest by the Football Association of Ireland for the proposed joint UK and Ireland bid for Euros 2028.
"The Government recognises the scale of opportunity jointly hosting EURO 2028 represents and, in line with our in principle support, we will continue to work with the FAI, partner governments, FA’s and other stakeholders on the detailed analysis of tournament feasibility, costs and benefits following the provision of bid technical information by UEFA and in advance of a formal bid."
Minister for Sport, Catherine Martin said: "The Government have agreed to support the football associations of the UK and Ireland with their submission of an Expression of Interest for UEFA EURO 2028.
"Officials in my Department will continue their examination of the costs and benefits of hosting the tournament prior to any final decision to bid.
"Hosting EURO 2028 games in Ireland could bring lots of benefits not least to Ireland’s tourism sector. Hosting the tournament also offers a very considerable opportunity to strengthen East-West and North-South relations in the years ahead.”
Minister of State for Gaeltacht Affairs and Sport, Jack Chambers said: "We missed out on a lot of things during the pandemic and Ireland hosting games during EURO 2020 was one of those things. I welcome another opportunity to bring this fantastic tournament to Ireland, should a decision be taken to make a formal bid.
"We now look forward to receiving further tournament requirements from UEFA and we will continue to work with our football and government partners to develop our hosting proposal over the coming months. “
Read more: Jonathan Hill claims Euro 2028 would be 'catalyst for growth in the game' as bid submitted
Read more: Stephen Kenny backs Euros expansion as says 2028 bid is 'positive for Ireland’
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