Northern Ireland’s Key Stadium Not Ready in Time for the Tournament, Says Benn
The UK government has confirmed that the redevelopment of Casement Park, located in west Belfast, will not be finished in time for the 2028 UEFA European Championship. Northern Ireland Secretary, Hilary Benn, explained that despite efforts to meet the tight deadline, the delay and inaction from the previous government rendered the project unfeasible.
Benn described the risk of missing the deadline as “too high,” adding that the scale of the event and the challenges of completing such a large infrastructure project in the given time were insurmountable. He pointed out that, under the previous government, there was a lack of progress in the 18 months leading up to the general election, which left little time to make up for lost ground.
The decision has sparked criticism from local leaders. First Minister Michelle O’Neill labelled the timing of the announcement as “shambolic,” claiming the British government’s handling of the situation was far from acceptable. She urged the UK government to provide an alternative plan for the stadium’s future, emphasising the importance of delivering on past promises to build the stadium.
In response, the Irish government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the project, with Taoiseach Simon Harris offering to continue discussions about providing further financial assistance, although he stated that any additional support would depend on the direction taken by the UK government and Northern Ireland’s devolved government.
O’Neill has called for clarity on the plans moving forward, particularly in light of the financial and political challenges surrounding the stadium’s reconstruction. Meanwhile, Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly raised concerns over the estimated £400 million cost of the project, which could be difficult to meet amid budgetary pressures.
As the situation evolves, local officials are now calling for urgent discussions to secure a legacy for Northern Ireland’s football community, despite the setback of missing out on the original deadline for Euros 2028.
