Birmingham is set to take centre stage in European football after being officially confirmed as a host city for the UEFA Euro 2028 tournament, with four matches scheduled at Villa Park.
Major Economic Boost for the City
The announcement was celebrated across Birmingham on November 12, with the Library of Birmingham illuminated to mark the occasion and the official host city logo unveiled. Council officials project the tournament will deliver approximately £117 million in economic benefits through job creation, skills development and increased business for local enterprises.
Councillor Mariam Khan, Cabinet Member for Health, expressed her enthusiasm during the launch event at the Library of Birmingham. "We're expecting to have around £117m of economic impact coming into the city, whether that's through jobs, skills or growth that benefits local businesses," she told reporters.
"I think all of those things combined is something we're really excited about, as well as that social impact and benefits to the community in terms of us being on that world stage once again, like we saw in the Commonwealth Games."
Villa Park Transformation
Aston Villa's home ground will host matches on June 11, 15, 20 and 27, 2028, welcoming international fans and showcasing Birmingham's capabilities as a major events destination. The selection has accelerated plans for the stadium's redevelopment, particularly the North Stand expansion that received planning approval earlier this year.
The redevelopment is crucial to increasing Villa Park's capacity to over 50,000 spectators, meeting UEFA requirements for tournament hosting. Council documents describe the project as completing a vision that ensures Villa Park becomes "not only a top-tier football stadium but also a year-round destination for fans and the local community."
Francesco Calvo, President of Business Operations at Aston Villa Football Club, stated: "We're incredibly proud that Villa Park has been selected as a host venue for UEFA Euro 2028 and today's celebration events only add to that pride. Having previously hosted international tournament matches, we look forward to welcoming Europe's elite to our home once again."
Lasting Legacy Beyond Football
Guy Rippon, Head of Foundation and Community at Aston Villa Foundation, emphasised the broader significance for the city. "It's a really good opportunity to showcase what we're all about as a city," he said. "With that comes the economic impact, creation of jobs, volunteering opportunities – there's a huge amount of benefit for Birmingham."
Councillor Sharon Thompson, Deputy Leader of Birmingham City Council, highlighted that the tournament extends far beyond the football pitch. "This tournament is just not about delivering an unforgettable summer of football on the pitch but creating lasting social and economic benefits for our residents and businesses beyond the pitch," she affirmed.
The 2028 European Championship will commence at the National Stadium of Wales in Cardiff on June 9, concluding with the final at Wembley Stadium on July 9. Birmingham's involvement continues the city's successful track record of hosting major international sporting events, building on the momentum from the Commonwealth Games and reinforcing its position as a world-class events destination.
