The FA and their Irish, Scottish and Welsh counterparts have formally submitted a bid dossier to jointly host the 2028 European Championship - and announced which stadiums could host games.
Their bid is set only to be rivalled by an offer from Turkey, who have been rejected for five other recent tournaments, with Russia ’s offer to host already ruled ineligible owing to the war in Ukraine and Italy deciding to instead attempt to win the rights to stage the next tournament in 2032.
The winners will be announced next September.
The British and Irish planning committee have submitted a list of 14 proposed stadiums across 10 cities, which will be whittled down to 10 grounds in April of next year - and the only new arena will be Everton ’s replacement for Goodison Park.
In a statement the joint-bid said that their vision would “create unforgettable memories in sold-out, iconic stadia in famous football cities known throughout the world.”
“The UK and Ireland’s track record of hosting successful major sporting events over many decades means we have the expertise and experience to take this world-class tournament to new heights.
“The plan ensures that all our proposed cities and stadia are connected by direct, quick and sustainable travel links and accommodation that will provide an unrivalled experience for teams and fans.”
Two Gaelic football grounds, the 82,000-capacity Croke Park and Belfast’s Casement Park, are on the proposed list with Hampden Park and Cardiff ’s Millennium Stadium the only ones nominated for Scotland and Wales.
Should their bid win, Wembley Stadium will host the final - despite last year’s showpiece ending in disgrace as supporters caused havoc inside and outside before Italy went on to defeat England in a penalty shootout.
The bid is also set to be complicated by UEFA being unwilling to give all five teams an automatic spot in the tournament - leading to a potential bunfight for places. Officials have previously stressed that this is a hurdle that they are yet to overcome.
Proposed stadiums
Birmingham Villa Park
Liverpool Everton Stadium
London London Stadium, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Wembley Stadium
Manchester City of Manchester Stadium, Old Trafford
Newcastle St James' Park
Sunderland Stadium of Light
Dublin Lansdowne Road, Croke Park
Belfast Casement Park Stadium
Glasgow Hampden Park
Cardiff National Stadium of Wales
