Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 November 2025
156. Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport the steps he will take to ensure that the Football Association of Ireland as a national sporting body hosting part of one of the biggest international tournaments, the Euro 2028 soccer tournament, is sufficiently staffed and funded for this huge task; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [64630/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraUEFA EURO 2028 was officially launched in London last week with Minister O'Donovan and Ministers from each of the host nations in attendance. It has been confirmed that Ireland will host 7 games during the tournament including a quarter final.
In relation to specific staffing requirements for the tournament, all National Governing Bodies for sport, including the Football Association of Ireland (FAI), are independent, autonomous bodies and, as such, are responsible for their own governance and operational matters.
It should be noted however, that Ireland's overall financial contribution towards the tournament includes funding that will be administered by UK & Ireland 2028 Ltd, the newly-established tournament company. UK & Ireland 2028 Ltd is being funded in part by contributions from each government partner and has been established to coordinate tournament delivery. The company is incorporated with the five UK and Ireland Football Associations, including the FAI, as shareholders.
