UEFA has approved a new format for Euro 2028 qualifying, ending the previous practice of guaranteeing the host nation an automatic ticket to the finals. For the first time, the four host nations - England, Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland - will also have to go through the qualifiers.
Under the new format, the 55 European national teams will be divided into 12 groups. The group winners and the eight best second-placed teams will directly qualify, filling 20 of the 24 places in the final tournament.
However, UEFA has provided a safety mechanism for the organisers. Two of the four remaining places in the final stage will be reserved for the host countries that fail to qualify through the qualifiers. If more than two organisers fail, these places will be awarded to the two host teams with the best qualifying rankings.
The decision has sparked controversy as it contrasts with FIFA's policy for the 2030 World Cup, where host nations are guaranteed places in the tournament. According to reports in The Sun, it has sparked backlash from fans, who have compared UEFA's approach to FIFA's.
Euro 2028 will be held at renowned stadiums in England, Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland, including Wembley, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Etihad Stadium, Everton's new stadium, St James' Park and Villa Park.
