Birmingham has been confirmed as a host city for UEFA Euro 2028, a prestigious football tournament set to inject approximately £117 million into the local economy. The city will welcome fans for four matches at Villa Park, which is preparing for the event with plans to expand its North Stand.
The tournament’s official launch included celebrations across the UK and Ireland, with Birmingham participating enthusiastically. Nine world-class stadiums in eight cities will stage the games, positioning Birmingham once again on the international sports stage.
At a launch event held at the Library of Birmingham, city officials expressed optimism about the lasting benefits of hosting Euro 2028. Councillor Mariam Khan, cabinet member for health, emphasized the tournament’s potential to reduce inequalities and create opportunities throughout Birmingham, including in its most deprived neighborhoods. “We’re expecting to have around £117 million of economic impact coming into the city, whether that’s through jobs, skills, or growth that benefits local businesses,” she stated.
READ MORE: Tower Block Residents ‘Betrayed’ as Energy Bills Quadruple Overnight in Walsall
READ MORE: ‘I’ll kill you, I’ll kill the police’ – chilling final moments of Birmingham family man Ayuub Abdi
The event is also expected to provide much-needed morale rejuvenation following recent difficulties faced by the city, such as financial challenges within the Labour-run council and a prolonged bin workers’ strike. Councillor Khan highlighted the importance of celebrating Birmingham’s strengths and boosting pride among residents. “We don’t do enough to shout about how brilliant the city is,” she remarked.
Labour council leader John Cotton stressed that Euro 2028 represents more than just a summer of football, aiming to deliver lasting community benefits beyond the matches themselves.
Community inclusion is a priority. Coun Khan confirmed that a large-scale community programme will run alongside the tournament, developed with local stakeholders to ensure deprived areas are not left behind. “This tournament is for everybody,” she affirmed.
Supporting this vision, Guy Rippon, Head of Foundation and Community at Aston Villa Foundation, noted the global attention the tournament will bring to Birmingham. He emphasized the opportunities for job creation, volunteering, and infrastructure investment around Villa Park, particularly in areas facing significant inequalities.
Similarly, Luke Bowles, head of football development at Birmingham County Football Association, expressed hopes that the tournament would spur increased investment in grassroots football. He highlighted a focus on engaging lower socio-economic groups and making football accessible on their terms, aiming for widespread community participation in the sport.
As Birmingham prepares for Euro 2028, hopes are high that the event will spark economic growth, foster community pride, and create lasting social and sporting legacies across the city.