Cork City Council Proposes Euro 2028 Bid for Leeside Venue
Cork City Council is taking proactive steps to attract Euro 2028 games to Leeside, as key council members unite to engage with UEFA and the Football Association of Ireland (FAI). Labour Party Councillor Peter Horgan introduced a motion at this week’s council meeting, emphasizing the significant economic and civic benefits that hosting such a prestigious tournament would bring to Cork and surrounding areas.
Council’s Collaborative Effort
The recent council meeting saw strong bipartisan support for Horgan’s motion, reflecting a concerted effort to present Cork as a viable destination for Euro 2028. "The FAI are in favour, the GAA are in favour, the Tánaiste and the Minister for Sport are in favour," Horgan stated, highlighting the broad coalition behind the initiative.
With the UK government recently halting funding for the renovation of Casement Park in Belfast, alternative sites are urgently being explored, which has placed SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh in the spotlight. "I’ve spoken to business leaders in the city too, so I want to keep the pressure on," Horgan added, indicating an inclusive approach to garnering support from all sectors.
The Importance of Euro 2028
The UEFA Euro 2028 tournament promises not just football but a wealth of opportunities for host cities. The influx of fans from across Europe would provide a substantial boost to local businesses, tourism, and infrastructure. The economic implications could ripple across the region, supporting jobs and enhancing Cork’s profile as a destination for large-scale events. "If we get some Euro 2028 games, there’s no telling what might happen; it could open us up to other hosting opportunities," Horgan noted.
Tánaiste Micheál Martin emphasized the potential of SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh. "It is being seriously looked at," he affirmed last month, as the venue’s capability to host significant international sports events comes into focus.
Addressing Infrastructure Needs
While there are concerns regarding necessary upgrades to the stadium, stakeholders remain optimistic. Horgan recognized that any renovations could lead to lasting benefits beyond the tournament itself. "The Tánaiste and the Minister for Sport wouldn’t have come out if they didn’t think it could happen," he stated, alluding to the potential for governmental support for infrastructure improvements.
The successful hosting of Euro 2028 could augment Cork’s stature and reputation in the sports domain, paving the way for future events, including possibly securing venues for other international competitions.
Council’s Unified Vision
Councillor Kenneth Collins of Sinn Féin, despite his previous opposition to using GAA stadiums for non-GAA sports, also lent his support to Horgan’s motion. “I was heartened by the overwhelming support of my motion. It was great to see that everyone in the council was on the same page,” Horgan commented, illustrating a united vision.
The unanimous agreement reflects a commitment among council members to position Cork as a contender for events that not only celebrate athletic excellence but also drive economic growth and community engagement.
What’s Next for Cork?
The next steps hinge on a response from UEFA, as Horgan indicated that "the FAI are waiting for UEFA," marking the interaction as a potential key milestone for the bid. With a robust coalition supporting the initiative and active discussions underway among stakeholders, Cork is poised for an exciting opportunity that could redefine its role in the international sports arena.
Engage with Us
What are your thoughts on Cork hosting Euro 2028? How do you think it could impact our community and local businesses? Share your opinions in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this article with friends who might be interested in the developments around sports events in Ireland.
For more information about the implications of international sporting events on local economies, visit TechCrunch or Wired.
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