Tyrone Mings and Michael Owen excited for UEFA EURO 2028

England’s Tyrone Mings and former Three Lions striker Michael Owen have both spoke of their excitement about the UK and Ireland hosting UEFA EURO 2028.

The tournament’s official launch took place on Wednesday evening with celebrations across the UK and Ireland and details around the tournament and the match schedule all revealed.

Eight host cities and nine venues across the UK and Ireland will host games – Birmingham, Cardiff, Dublin, Glasgow, Liverpool, London, Manchester and Newcastle – with the opening match in Cardiff on Friday 9 June 2028 and the Final at Wembley on Sunday 9 July 2028.

And with the news that should the Three Lions qualify directly, with the draw for the qualifying stage to take place in December 2026, they will play three group stage games on home soil, there’s plenty to look forward to for both players and fans alike.

Mings, whose current club Aston Villa will host three group games and a quarter-final at Villa Park, was part of the Three Lions squad who reached the EURO 2020 Final in England and is also a UK & Ireland 2028 Limited Board Member.

And having experienced what it’s like to represent your country in a major tournament on home turf, he believes those who go on to represent the Three Lions in the summer of 2028 will form memories to last a lifetime.

“EURO 2028 will be an unforgettable experience for everyone – for the players stepping into world-class stadiums, and the fans who will create an electric atmosphere,” he said.

“I’ve played in many of these venues and they’re incredible when they come alive on big occasions.

“This tournament will showcase the very best of our football culture, fuel future football development and make a positive impact on local communities that lasts long after the final whistle.”

Meanwhile former Liverpool, Manchester United, Newcastle United and Real Madrid star Owen, who played for the Three Lions in EURO 2000 and EURO 2004, is a football ambassador for the tournament.

And having scored in both of the EURO tournaments he played in, knows exactly what the feeling will be for those involved.

“UEFA EURO 2028 will be an incredible moment for players and fans – a chance to celebrate our shared love of the game on home soil in brilliant stadiums across passionate football cities,” he said.

“Playing in a EURO was an amazing experience and I’m sure all players in 2028 will treasure the memories. I’ve no doubt the tournament will also bring people together and inspire the next generation of talent and supporters.”