UEFA has confirmed that the four Euro 2020 matches that were due to be held in Dublin will now be moved due to the public health situation in Ireland.
The Aviva Stadium in Dublin had been due to host three group matches at Euro 2020 as well as one round of 16 game but it has now been confirmed that the ground will no longer be able to accommodate a minimum of 25 per cent spectator attendance.
UEFA General Secretary Theodore Theodoridis said: “UEFA acknowledge the disappointment within Irish football that we have had to take this decision but we have made a commitment for fans to be part of the UEFA Euro 2020 Tournament. We just cannot have a game without any fans and an empty stadium at Euro 2020. We fully understand that it was very difficult for the Dublin Local Organising Structure to find a way to make this possible within the necessary timeframe."
Minister of State for Sport & The Gaeltacht Jack Chambers added: "We are all very disappointed with today’s announcement. However, I understand that this was a difficult decision from UEFA’s point of view. I just want to take this opportunity to acknowledge all of the people who have worked so hard over the past few years preparing to host the games in Dublin. Partners including the FAI, Dublin City Council, the Aviva Stadium, relevant Government Departments, An Garda Síochána, the NTA, volunteers and UEFA staff in Dublin all showed great commitment to making Dublin a great host city.
Daniel McDonnell of the Irish Independent reports that 'ticket buyers for the Euros games in Dublin will receive a full refund at face value but will receive priority access on first come first served based for reorganised games in St Petersburg and London.'
https://twitter.com/McDonnellDan/status/1385551680171823105
Ticketholders have until Monday to seek a refund from UEFA. You can read today's statement in full
here.
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