Euro 2028 will 'inspire next generation of Scots', says UK Sport Secretary

Lisa Nandy was speaking at a special event in the garden of 10 Downing Street with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, England footballer Tyrone Mings and UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin.

Ms Nandy said she will be supporting England at the tournament but would back Scotland “when they aren’t playing” because she has a Scottish cousin.

She also backed Hearts to win the Scottish Premiership this season due to the influence of culture minister and Hearts fan Ian Murray.

The football tournament will be hosted across the UK and Ireland.

When asked whether it would boost Scotland’s economy, Ms Nandy told The Scotsman: “The economic benefit for Scotland is £270 million. Part of the bidding process was that the tournament would produce benefits for all of the country.

“It’s got to have an economic legacy and inspire the next generation of Scots.

“We want to make sure that the UK Government is making decisions which can inspire people.”

The UK Government has invested £557m in the tournament, while the Scottish Government has put in £73m.

The Scottish Government funding includes £3.2 million for projects to help local communities as part of a wider UK and Ireland partner social impact fund of around £45 million.

Ms Nandy said some money could go towards helping with infrastructure: “We have arenas hosting games all over the country, including in Glasgow.

“We will upgrade facilities which need it and will work with the Scottish Government to make sure that there is a legacy for young people.”

She added: “Young people will get the chance to cheer on fellow Scots at home who look like them.”

When asked if she will be backing Scotland at the tournament, Ms Nandy said: “I will be supporting England but when they aren’t playing I will be supporting Scotland.

“I have a cousin who is Scottish who wouldn’t forgive me if I didn’t back them.”

When asked if she would like Hearts to win the league, she said: “I have got to be careful because Ian Murray is in my department.

“I will back Ian on this one.”

Earlier on Wednesday, Sir Keir was forced to condemn “completely unacceptable” attacks on Health Secretary Wes Streeting over claims he is plotting a leadership challenge.

When asked if the Prime Minister will still be in office by 2028, Ms Nandy said: “Of course he will be in charge.”

SNP First Minister John Swinney said: “Our investment in EURO 2028 will bring significant benefits not only during the tournament but long after it concludes by creating jobs, driving regional prosperity and encouraging visitors to our shores.

“This spectacle of European football’s finest will bring communities together and offer a fresh opportunity to provide a warm Scottish welcome, deliver vibrant celebrations and reinforce our global reputation for hospitality.

“With funding going into health and wellbeing programmes across Scotland, the EUROs can be a force for good in tackling inequalities and supporting communities.

“The Scottish Government has already invested £5.5 million in the Extra Time programme – and I’ve seen what a huge difference that has made to children and families in Scotland. I’m pleased we are able to provide further benefits to local communities by being a part of this once-in-a-generation event.”