Lega Serie A CEO Luigi De Siervo warns that Italy could withdraw as co-host of Euro 2032 if the stadiums’ ’emergency’ is not solved by 2026.
Italy and Turkey have submitted a successful joint bid to host the European Championships in 2032, but De Siervo has warned that Italy could eventually be forced to withdraw.
Speaking at the Social Football Summit in Rome on Tuesday, as quoted by TMW, the Lega Serie A CEO said: “We have a fundamental problem, which is the stadiums. Hopefully, we will pass UEFA’s stadiums examination in 2027, otherwise, our bid with Turkey will drop. We have an absolute emergency and we have asked the government to help clubs overcome the bureaucracy part.
“We have transformed Lega Serie A into a real media company. We have reached the first target. Now, we enter the second phase to attract as many fans as possible. Italian football is developing, as proved by results in European competitions. We hope to have five clubs in the Champions League next season.”
Calcio & Finanza report more quotes from De Siervo: “As for stadiums, we hope to reach a sufficiency level from UEFA in October 2026; otherwise the application [to host Euro 2032] will be revoked. We have informed the government about the absolute need for a stadiums commissioner.”
On the other hand, FIGC President Gabriele Gravina seemed sceptical about the need for an external figure such as a stadiums commissioner who would oversee projects to refurbish and build new arenas in the country.
“We must ensure this event becomes an opportunity and use any possible strategy to make the most of it,” Gravina said on October 10, immediately after UEFA confirmed Italy and Turkey would host the 2032 Euros.
“Everyone must do his part. I’ve heard about a commissioner. Don’t be deceived. The commissioner can’t be the solution to all problems. It can be helpful, but it is one of the elements. All the others must be identified in the world of football.”
Italy and Turkey presented 20 potential host stadiums, of which ten will be chosen, five per country, by October 2026.