Uefa to 'discuss implications' of UK Euros decision

Uefa says it will "discuss the implications" of the UK Government's decision not to provide funding to redevelop Casement Park in Belfast in time to be used as a venue for Euro 2028.

The tournament will be jointly hosted by the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland.

The chances of Northern Ireland hosting matches in the tournament appeared to end when the decision was announced on Friday night in light of the estimated cost of the project rising to more than £400m.

The initial estimated cost of rebuilding Casement was £77.5m, with £62.5m coming from the Stormont executive and £15m from the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA).

That was more than a decade ago, and since then costs have risen dramatically.

The government said that there was "a significant risk" that the stadium would not be built in time.

The announcement was made in a joint letter from NI Secretary Hilary Benn and Sports Minister Lisa Nandy to Stormont Minister Gordon Lyons, who is in charge of sport in Northern Ireland.

"Uefa has taken note of the UK Government’s position regarding Casement Park, which we will review together with the UK and Ireland 2028 partnership to discuss the implications for the host venue planning of the tournament," read the statement released by Uefa to BBC Sport NI.

Stadiums in England, Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland have already been confirmed for the 2028 event.

Meanwhile, Gary McAllister, who is chairman of the Amalgamation of Official Northern Ireland Supporters' Clubs (AONISC), told BBC Sport NI that it was important that Northern Ireland still derives some benefit the Euro finals.

Northern Ireland could still have a role as a training base or host warm-up matches at the existing Windsor Park stadium.

"We note the news that HM Government has indicated that they are unable to fund the refurbishment of Casement Park for inclusion in Euro 2028," said McAllister on behalf of the supporters' association he represents.

"It is essential that the Irish FA now engages with all relevant stakeholders to ensure that Northern Ireland football still has a significant role to play in the tournament and that football at all levels in our country enjoys a legacy of Euro 2028."