Ulster GAA chief: Casement Park can be a unifying symbol of sport

WORK TO DO: A general view of Casement Park, which was announced as one of the proposed venues for Uefa Euro 2028. Pic: Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile

The GAA’s Ulster Council have welcomed Uefa’s decision to award Euro 2028 to Ireland and the United Kingdom.

As part of a joint-statement with the Irish Football Association (IFA), the provincial body’s chief executive Brian McAvoy said the yet-to-be-redeveloped Casement Park will be “a compelling symbol of the power that sport has to unite people from every generation and background”.

Listed as one of the 10 venues in the successful bid, Casement Park’s reconstruction is now expected to be expedited with both the British and Irish governments making financial commitments to the Belfast venue’s rebuild.

McAvoy said: “The GAA prides itself in delivering for society and the inclusion of Casement Park in this successful Uefa Euro 2028 bid is recognition of the major role we play in enriching the lives of our communities. It is also testament to the partnership that has developed with the Irish Football Association.   

“Casement Park hosting top level international soccer matches as part of UEFA Euro 2028 will be a compelling symbol of the power that sport has to unite people from every generation and background.  

“As has happened with other GAA venues on the island in staging games from other codes, we will play our full part in helping to deliver a truly groundbreaking and inclusive tournament for the benefit of everyone.”  

Irish FA chief executive Patrick Nelson said: “The Irish Football Association is delighted to be part of the successful bid to host Uefa Euro 2028 alongside our counterparts across the UK and Ireland. 

“Together our vision is to stage the greatest ever Uefa Euro tournament, an event that unites and inspires everyone – delivering football for all, football for good, football for the future.” 

Antrim GAA also reacted warmly to the development. Their statement read: “Casement Park WILL HOST Euro 2028 Games. Uefa has confirmed the joint bid between Ireland and Britain for the 2028 European Championships. This major European tournament will create jobs, showcase what we have to offer and put our County on the map.” 

County chairman Ciaran McCavana commented: “Today is a positive news story not just for the Gaels of Antrim and beyond, but for the whole community. We look forward to the building of a state of the art modern facility at Páirc Mhic Asmaint”.