What is the New Qualification Format for UEFA Euro 2028?
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Synopsis
UEFA has just revealed an exciting new qualification format for the Euro 2028, promising thrilling matches across nine venues in the UK and Ireland. With host nations actively participating, this tournament aims to be a spectacular showcase of European football talent.
Key Takeaways
- Euro 2028 will feature 24 teams competing in nine venues.
- There will be 12 qualifying groups formed for the tournament.
- Host nations will participate in separate qualifying groups.
- The top 20 teams will advance directly to the final tournament.
- Play-offs will determine final tournament spots for non-qualifying teams.
Bilbao, May 21 (NationPress) The UEFA Executive Committee has unveiled the qualification format for the upcoming 2028 European Championship during a meeting held in Bilbao on Wednesday. This prestigious tournament will take place across nine venues in the United Kingdom and Ireland, featuring 24 participating teams.
Similar to the current 2024-26 European Qualifiers, there will be twelve qualifying groups, each consisting of four or five teams. The host nations—England, Republic of Ireland, Scotland, and Wales—will also take part in the qualifying rounds, each drawn into their own groups.
The top 12 group winners and 8 best runners-up (totaling 20 teams) will secure their places directly in the final tournament.
Additionally, two slots in the final tournament will be reserved for the two highest-ranked host nations that do not qualify as group winners or best runners-up after the qualifying group stage concludes.
The remaining slots will be filled through play-offs involving the other runners-up in the qualifying groups and the top-ranked 2026-27 UEFA Nations League non-qualified group winners.
The number of spots determined via play-offs may fluctuate between two and four, depending on how many slots are utilized by the host nations.
If both reserved slots for the hosts are utilized, then eight teams will compete in two paths for two final tournament spots, with single-leg semi-finals and finals.
If one reserved slot is used, then 12 teams will vie in three paths for three final tournament spots, again featuring single-leg semi-finals and finals.
In the event that no reserved slots are used, then eight teams will engage in four home-and-away play-off ties, with the victors progressing to the final tournament.
UEFA has also indicated that the complete tournament regulations containing all remaining details will be disclosed by the end of the year.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the significance of the UEFA Euro 2028 qualification format. This announcement not only emphasizes the importance of football in the UK and Ireland but also reflects UEFA's commitment to inclusivity and competition. Hosting the tournament presents a unique opportunity for these nations to showcase their football culture and unite fans across borders.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How many teams will participate in Euro 2028?
There will be 24 teams competing in the Euro 2028 Championship.
Where will Euro 2028 be held?
Euro 2028 will take place across nine venues in the United Kingdom and Ireland.
What is the qualification format for Euro 2028?
The qualification will consist of twelve groups, with the top teams advancing directly to the tournament.
How are the playoff spots determined?
Playoff spots will be filled by remaining runners-up and top-ranked non-qualified group winners from the UEFA Nations League.
When will the complete tournament regulations be released?
The full tournament regulations will be published by UEFA by the end of the year.
