Proposals for a 34,500-capacity stadium in Northern Ireland for Euro 2028 have been thrown into doubt after the UK government withdrew funding for the project.
In a recent announcement on Friday, September 13, the UK government revealed a dramatic increase in the estimated build costs for the redevelopment of Casement Park in west Belfast. Originally budgeted at £180 million, the project’s costs have now surged to £400 million. Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn and Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy stated that, due to the substantial increase in costs and concerns about the project's timely completion, it is no longer feasible for the government to continue funding.
Benn and Nandy explained: 'After seeking expert advice and thorough analysis, we have concluded that there is a significant risk the stadium will not be completed in time. This delay is partly attributed to the lack of progress between the awarding of Euro 2028 and the formation of the new government.'
They added: 'Regrettably, we have decided it is not appropriate for the UK government to provide further funding for the Casement Park project with the aim of hosting matches at Euro 2028.'
The announcement comes as a setback to the redevelopment scheme, which had initially gained approval in 2021 following intervention by Northern Ireland ministers. An earlier proposal for a 38,000-capacity stadium had been rejected after a judicial review in 2013.
Populous, the architectural firm previously involved, is no longer working on the project. The Irish government had pledged €50 million (£42.15 million) for the development, with Taoiseach Simon Harris expressing disappointment over the UK’s decision but affirming Ireland’s commitment. Harris said: 'We must not lose sight of the opportunity to create another top-class sporting facility in a city renowned for its sporting culture. The next steps are up to the Northern Ireland Executive and the British Government, and I will work with the first and deputy first ministers to explore how we can proceed.'
To date, £120 million has been allocated towards the redevelopment of Casement Park, which has been closed since June 2013. This includes £62.5 million from the Northern Irish government, £42.15 million from Ireland, and £15 million from the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA), which owns the stadium.
