More GAA stadiums could feature in UEFA Euro 2028
Seán Kelly, MEP for Ireland South and former President of the GAA, has expressed strong support for the potential use of Páirc Uí Chaoimh as a venue for the UEFA Euro 2028 tournament, following the decision to rule out Casement Park due to redevelopment delays.
"Páirc Uí Chaoimh is a premier stadium, and it would be a fantastic host for matches during Euro 2028," said Mr Kelly. "This is an exciting opportunity for Cork and for Ireland as a whole. I believe the stadium has everything needed to rise to the occasion, and with the necessary upgrades, we can meet UEFA’s standards."
Kelly's influence in opening Croke Park for international soccer and rugby in the mid-2000s laid the groundwork for such discussions today. Reflecting on his historic decision to open Croke Park for international fixtures, Kelly noted, "I’ve always believed that our stadiums should serve the broader community. In my time as GAA President, I championed the opening of Croke Park because I knew it was in the best interest of Irish sport. Now. With Páirc Uí Chaoimh, we have another opportunity to showcase Ireland on a global stage."
The former GAA President highlighted the importance of keeping as many matches as possible on the island of Ireland. "It’s vital for our country to retain these fixtures. Páirc Uí Chaoimh offers a solution, and it’s a chance to build on the legacy of collaboration between the GAA and international sports organisations," he said.
Mr Kelly’s leadership during his tenure as GAA President was instrumental in transforming the association’s stance on international games, most notably through his efforts in 2005 to amend Rule 42 and allow rugby and soccer to be played at Croke Park.
"We proved back then that opening our stadiums to other sports not only benefitted the GAA but also the nation as a whole. The success of those events was a testament to what we can achieve when we embrace collaboration."
As Páirc Uí Chaoimh prepares for possible consideration, Kelly highlighted the economic and cultural benefits such an event could bring to the region. "The potential boost to Cork’s local economy and the positive exposure for Irish sport are enormous. This is not just about soccer; it is about pride in our infrastructure and showing the world what Cork and Ireland have to offer. Furthermore, the GAA should make it clear to the FAI that they are open for business when it comes to use of stadiums. We are lucky to have great grounds across the country, such as in Tipperary, Kilkenny and of course Croke Park, which may qualify for UEFA standards."
"It is a shame that the plan to redevelop Casement Park in Belfast as a venue for Euro 2028 has collapsed. However, this should not be the end of its story when it comes to upgrades to the stadium. There should be a renewed commitment by the GAA and the government to get the project over the line."
Mr Kelly remains confident that the necessary work can be completed to meet UEFA’s specifications. "There are no insurmountable challenges here. We’ve done this before with Croke Park, and we can do it again with Páirc Uí Chaoimh or other stadiums.”