Football/Euro.- Aleksander Ceferin: “EURO 2024 has sparked incredible interest around the world”

The president of UEFA and the president of the DFB, Bernd Neuendorf, welcome the continental tournament

MADRID, 13 (EUROPA PRESS)

The president of UEFA, Aleksander Ceferin, and his counterpart of the German Football Federation (DFB), Bernd Neuendorf, left welcome messages this Thursday for the imminent start of Euro 2024, predicting great success and strong emotions.

“UEFA EURO 2024 has finally arrived, and it is impossible not to feel the enthusiasm and excitement that such a spectacular football festival provokes. Since its inception in 1960, the European Football Championship has become one of the most important sporting events most exciting events on the planet. This summer is as epic as ever, with 24 teams preparing for an intense competition, dreaming of making history and winning the long-awaited Henri Delaunay trophy,” says Ceferin in a welcome message posted on the official website. of UEFA.

The president of the body that governs European football recalled the interest that the continental tournament that starts this Friday has aroused. “Even before the ball got rolling, EURO 2024 has generated incredible interest around the world. Last year, more than 50 million tickets were requested during two sales periods alone, and a record 146,000 were submitted. requests for volunteers, which shows the immense expectation aroused by this truly global event,” he says.

“Famous for its rich football heritage, Germany boasts extraordinary infrastructure, including state-of-the-art stadiums. By ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for players, referees and fans alike, it promises to be the perfect host for UEFA EURO 2024. The tournament “This summer celebrates not only the skill and virtue of the protagonists on the field of play, but also life, inclusion and diversity,” he adds.

Furthermore, Ceferin sees Germany as the perfect host. “UEFA, the German Football Association (DFB) and federal and local government structures have come together to deliver an event that honors democracy, respect, tolerance and human rights. We have taken significant steps to minimize the environmental impact of the tournament and we have created a climate fund for grassroots football, which promises a lasting legacy,” he says.

“I want to thank everyone involved, from our sponsors and partners to suppliers, for their incredible support and unwavering dedication to our mission. Now, let’s enjoy this magical summer of football in a spirit of fair play and respect, and Let’s create unforgettable memories together. Let’s be united by football,” he concludes.

On the other hand, Bernd Neuendorf also left his message of celebration for the EURO. “Germany and the German Football Association will, after 36 years, once again organize a European Championship… throughout Germany. In 1988, the only time the European Championship was held here, our country was still divided,” point.

“This time, along with newcomers Dortmund in the west and Leipzig and Berlin in the east, a total of ten cities will host the tournament. Reunified Germany is looking forward to this championship, whose exciting matches attract fans from “UEFA EURO 2024 will demonstrate once again that Germany is a nation that loves football. I am sure that the unifying power of our sport will be tangible throughout the country next summer,” he added.

On the other hand, the DFB president valued the power of football to unite society. “On the pitch, when different players with different family histories come together to form a successful team. In the stadiums and in the thousands of fans, when fans from all over the world come together and peacefully celebrate football together. And in the streets and in front of the screens, when many different types of people and their selections rejoice or commiserate with enthusiasm,” he says.

“UEFA EURO 2024 will have a long-term impact. Not only because high-level matches and a unique atmosphere will leave indelible memories. The EURO will also set clear sustainability priorities and promote amateur football through various measures and projects “I wish you and all of us a fantastic few weeks of exciting football and inspiring encounters both inside and outside the stadiums,” he concludes.