No clarity on automatic Euro 2028 qualification spots for hosts 

All five nations will participate in the normal qualification process during 2027, with two places reserved for nations who don’t secure their spots by finishing in the top two.

UNITED FRONT: Representatives from the host countries, including Shamrock Rovers player and Republic of Ireland underage international Ade Solanke, third from right, and former Welsh international, Gareth Bale. Picture: INPHO/UEFA/Kristian Skeie

Uncertainty still surrounds the criteria to be applied for automatic hosting places at Euro ’28 if Ireland don’t clinch qualification on the pitch.

Today’s confirmation at UEFA headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland of Ireland and UK staging the 24-team showpiece was a formality but clarity on the golden tickets may not be forthcoming for over a year.