Sinn Féin Leas-Uachtarán Michelle O’Neill has said confirmation that Casement Park will not be built in time to host UEFA Euro 2028 is deeply disappointing and a missed opportunity for sport and our economy.

Michelle O’Neill said:

“Casement Park will be built. It’s an Executive commitment, and something that both the British and Irish governments have committed to.

“The decision not to proceed with Casement Park in time to host UEFA Euro 2028 is deeply disappointing and a missed opportunity not only for local sport, but for our economy.

“This was a unique opportunity to create jobs, boost tourism, and showcase our island’s sporting talent on the global stage.

“We will continue to work with the GAA, our local executive and the two governments to push this project forward and get these state-of-the-art facilities built and a first-class stadium for Gaelic games delivered.

“To make this announcement on the same day as pausing funding for the transformational City and Growth Deal for our towns and cities smacks of cynicism from the British Secretary of State.

“Hilary Benn has said clearly that Casement Park will be built, so I would urge his government to honour the commitments they’ve made and let’s get it built.”