Uefa confirm Euro 2016 to remain in France despite Paris attacks

Euro 2016 will remain in France, Uefa has announced.

The country’s hosting of the tournament has come under scrutiny since Friday’s terrorist attacks in Paris, which killed 129 people with many more seriously injured.

France’s 1958 World Cup star Just Fontaine was one prominent figure to call on the country to give up hosting rights, claiming: “It is simply too dangerous”.

But Uefa stated: “For over three years now, (tournament organising committee) Euro 2016 SAS has been working closely with the relevant authorities to develop the most appropriate mechanisms in order to guarantee there is a safe and secure tournament and we are confident that the necessary measures will be taken to ensure that is the case for all involved.

“The Euro final draw will go ahead as scheduled on 12 December at the Palais des Congres in Paris and the final tournament will be played in France from 10 June to 10 July 2016.”

Fontaine, 82, was present at the Stade de France on Friday night when the stadium was one of the venues targeted in what appeared to be co-ordinated attacks across the French capital.

“I think France should forego the tournament. I am very afraid that this black Friday could be repeated.

“I think we cannot guarantee the safety that is required to host such a big event. It is simply too dangerous. Do you really think that people are going to go to the Stade de France in future?”

Outside of football, Toulon president Mourad Boudjellal has suggested the postponed European Rugby Champions Cup game against Bath could take place during the RBS 6 Nations.

All Champions Cup and Challenge Cup matches that were due to be played in France over the weekend were postponed following the Paris attacks.