Italy hope to ride the enthusiasm of their UEFA EURO 2020 triumph to reboot sport in the country, as FIGC President Gabriele Gravina announces they’ll aim to host the 2028 Euros or 2030 World Cup.
The Azzurri beat England at Wembley Stadium in a penalty shoot-out on Sunday, but could be facing England again off the field when it comes to battling for the chance to host the 2030 World Cup.
The huge problems around that Final at Wembley, with thousands of fans reportedly pushing their way in without tickets and dozens of police officers injured, hit England’s chances hard.
Italy aim to make the most of the situation and the revival of their sporting fortunes on the pitch.
“It is a victory for all those who collaborated with the long-term project,” said Gravina.
“It gives hope to the country in general, as research suggests the economic impact is an improvement of 0.7 on the GDP, circa €12 billion.
“The victory itself in the tournament brought revenue for €36m, which is not to be sniffed at.”
It is hoped that getting the rights to host a major tournament could finally force some local councils to accept revamping of stadiums that were last transformed for the 1990 World Cup.
“We have the 2028 Euros and the 2030 World Cup as opportunities, but we have to take it one step at a time, so the Euros first.”