The FAW’s leading figure has predicted the decision will unite the nation and showcase the best of Welsh football on the world stage.
On Wednesday night, UEFA officially confirmed that the Principality Stadium – to be renamed the National Stadium of Wales for the tournament – will stage the first match of Euro 2028 on Friday, June 6, 2028.
The venue will also host five additional fixtures, including three group-stage games, a last-16 tie, and a quarter-final.
For Mooney, the announcement marks a defining moment for Welsh football.
“This will be the first time that ‘The Red Wall’ – our passionate Wales fans – will experience a major international tournament on home soil,” he said.
“It’s a truly historic occasion that will unite communities, inspire future generations and showcase the very best of Welsh football and culture on the
The decision places Cardiff alongside some of Europe’s most iconic football cities as hosts of the 24-team tournament, which will be jointly staged across England, Scotland, Wales, and the Republic of Ireland.
The Principality Stadium – one of nine venues chosen – joins Wembley Stadium, Hampden Park, Dublin’s Aviva Stadium, and Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium among the main arenas.
Other English stadiums include Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Villa Park, Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium, and St James’ Park in Newcastle.
Although Wales will play a central role as hosts, their place in the tournament is not yet guaranteed.
Due to the joint nature of the bid, UEFA has ruled that all four host nations must go through the qualifying process.
However, the two best-ranked hosts who fail to qualify automatically will be awarded spots at the finals.
The qualifying draw for Euro 2028 will be held in Belfast on December 6, 2026, with each host nation placed in separate groups.
At the official tournament launch, Debbie Hewitt, chair of UK & Ireland 2028 Limited, promised that the competition would celebrate the essence of football and its ability to connect people.
“It will be a tournament for the fans and a festival of everything we love about the game – its passion and ability to bring people together,” she said.
UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin praised the co-host nations, calling the joint effort a fitting tribute to football’s origins.
“The host nations, where the game first took shape, are eager to welcome millions of fans into legendary stadiums, providing the right stage for a festival of emotions.”
The UK government has committed £557 million to staging the tournament, projecting an estimated £3.2 billion in economic benefits through job creation, tourism, and regional development.
With an average stadium capacity close to 60,000, UEFA expects record-breaking attendances across the 51 matches.
But for Mooney and Welsh football, the spotlight will burn brightest on Cardiff — and the moment when The Red Wall finally gets to roar on home soil at a major international tournament.
