The team penalized by FIFA surprisingly applies to host Euro 2032

The team currently under a FIFA ban unexpectedly filed an application to host Euro 2032, as concerns arise regarding Italy's ability to organize the event.

The Euro 2032 finals are set to be held in two countries: Italy and Turkey. However, recently there have been growing worries about Italy’s stadium infrastructure. According to the Daily Mail, concerns have been raised that the stadiums in Italy may not be completed on time due to outdated facilities.

Amid increasing doubts about Italy’s preparedness, reports suggest that Russia is interested in stepping in as a host nation. According to the Gazzetta dello Sport, Alexander Dyukov, President of the Moscow Football Federation, told Sport.ru that: “Italy is facing stadium issues. If they lose hosting rights, we are ready. Russia is prepared to host Euro 2032 in place of Italy.”

Sources also reveal that out of the 10 stadiums proposed by Italy, only one has been approved by UEFA.

However, following political conflicts with Ukraine, both UEFA and FIFA suspended all Russian national teams and clubs from international competitions. Russia has appealed six times, but all appeals were dismissed by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

In August, Ezio Simonelli, Chairman of Italy’s Football Tournament Organizing Committee, expressed concerns that the country might lose the right to host Euro 2032. He stated: “I am genuinely worried about Euro 2032. Is the hosting right at risk? I hope it’s just my concern, but when UEFA’s President says our stadiums are in a ‘coma’ state with only six years left until Euro, we really risk disappointing the world.

It’s unfortunate that except for Udine, Bergamo, and Turin, most of Italy’s stadiums are in severe disrepair. Mr. Ceferin’s harsh criticism is something I fully agree with.”

Last month, UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin also commented on the ban against Russian football. In an interview with POLITICO, he said: “The ban on Russian teams has lasted about three and a half years. Has the conflict ended? No. So currently, I don’t know what will happen. I must say when the Russia-Ukraine war broke out, we faced immense political pressure. Now, the pressure is more from the public, not just politicians. I can’t predict the future; all possibilities are being considered, but personally, I do not support banning athletes.”

Historically, Russia has demonstrated its capability to host major international football events. Most notably, the 2018 World Cup was the first held in the country, featuring 12 modern stadiums stretching from Moscow to Sochi. The tournament was a huge success, earning praise from FIFA for its organization, security, and infrastructure.

Additionally, Moscow’s Luzhniki Stadium hosted the 2008 Champions League final between Man Utd and Chelsea, as well as key matches during the 2017 Confederations Cup.

Related articles

FIFA bans 8 countries from World Cup qualifiers Currently, 8 countries are banned from participating in World Cup qualifiers due to not being officially recognized as FIFA members. See more