Share

Euro 2024 bidders Germany, Turkey praised by UEFA

Lausanne - Germany and Turkey, the two candidates to host Euro 2024, were both praised in a UEFA report published on Friday a week ahead of the vote on where the 24-team tournament will be staged.

Germany's bid was of "the highest quality" while Turkey's was "in line with the long-term objectives of UEFA".

The 42-page report analyses each bid for vision, security, transport, finance, stadiums and "political, social and environmental aspects."

The executive committee of the governing body of European football will vote on the Euro 2024 hosts next Thursday at UEFA's headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland.

West Germany hosted Euro 1988, which was won by the Netherlands, and also the 1974 World Cup. Unified Germany hosted the World Cup in 2006.

Turkey, a candidate for the fourth time, lost to France in the race to host of Euro 2016.

The vote follows a World Cup in Russia which ended with the German squad mired in controversy over the treatment of two players of Turkish origin, Ilkay Gundogan and Mesut Ozil.

Germany's vision, said the report, "is rooted in the belief that football can unify society and this tournament can create an enduring legacy for European football."

"All political and football structures are in place in Germany with a long and stable history of successful events," the report said.

Germany offered "ten existing and operational stadiums" the report said, though it added that all would have to "undergo specific upgrades".

For its part, Turkey "not only offers teams and spectators the best conditions, but brings people together by promoting an intercultural dialogue thanks to its location between three continents."

"The key motivation is clearly stated, strong, and in line with UEFA's long-term objectives," the report said.

"Its specific focus is on the economic and social effects of the tournament, as well as on promoting values such as inclusion, diversity and accessibility."

"The Turkish bid proposes ten stadiums of which seven are existing and operational stadiums, requiring upgrades only," the report said.

It cited the support of Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan, but warned that "recent economic developments in the country may put planned public investments under pressure".

The next Euros, in 2020 break with tradition and will be played in 12 cities in different countries, with the semi-finals and final in London.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2248 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE