Excitement is mounting in Birmingham following the official announcement that the city will host four matches during the UEFA Euro 2028 tournament, with all games set to take place at Villa Park.
The tournament was officially launched on November 12, marked by events across the UK and Ireland. In Birmingham, the unveiling of the host city logo and the illumination of the Library of Birmingham celebrated the city’s pivotal role in this international event.
Euro 2028 will see matches held in nine stadiums spread across eight host cities, with Birmingham among them. Scheduled fixtures at Villa Park are slated for June 11, 15, 20, and 27.
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Birmingham City Council highlights the tournament’s potential to generate enduring benefits for local communities through an exceptional celebration of elite international football. Councillor Mariam Khan expressed optimism about the positive economic and social impacts the event will bring.
“We anticipate around £117 million flowing into the city’s economy—supporting jobs, skills development, and growth for local businesses,” said Coun Khan, the cabinet member for health. “Beyond economics, hosting the tournament will boost community morale and showcase Birmingham on the world stage once again, much like during the Commonwealth Games.”
Councillor Khan emphasized how major sporting events energize residents and foster city pride. “We don’t always do enough to celebrate how fantastic Birmingham is, but this event gives us a perfect platform to shine,” she added.
From the sporting community, Guy Rippon, Head of Foundation and Community at Aston Villa Foundation, noted that the tournament would shine a spotlight on Birmingham, offering extensive benefits such as job creation and volunteering opportunities. He underscored ongoing investment in Villa Park’s facilities ahead of the competition.
Deputy leader of Birmingham City Council, Coun Sharon Thompson, stressed that Euro 2028 is about more than football. “This tournament promises an unforgettable sporting spectacle, but it’s also about delivering lasting social and economic advantages for residents and businesses alike,” she remarked.
Aston Villa Football Club’s President of Business Operations, Francesco Calvo, expressed immense pride in Villa Park’s selection as a host venue, looking forward to welcoming Europe’s best teams. The club’s ambitious plans to expand the North Stand, recently approved by council planners, aim to increase Villa Park’s capacity to over 50,000 in time for the tournament.
Euro 2028 will commence at Wales’s National Stadium in Cardiff on June 9 and culminate with the final at London’s Wembley Stadium on July 9. The preparations in Birmingham promise to position the city as a premier destination, blending world-class football with community engagement and economic growth.