Newcastle United have provided UEFA with firm guarantees that St James’ Park will remain untouched in its current form for Euro 2028, signalling that any major stadium redevelopment remains several years away.
This commitment assures that no major work will begin before the end of the 2027-28 season, and it follows earlier hesitation due to uncertainty about long-term stadium plans.
After agreeing to take part, Newcastle were awarded four group-stage fixtures and a round-of-16 tie that could potentially feature England.
Their inclusion is a major boost for the city but comes with a clear implication that no construction work will begin before the 2028-29 season at the earliest.
New Newcastle United stadium vision slowed by timeline pressures
Unlike Manchester United, who pulled Old Trafford from the preliminary bid due to their ongoing review, Newcastle have opted to stay put despite their plans.
The Magpies are conducting a similar assessment of St James’ Park’s long-term future but have opted for stability while Euro 2028 preparations continue.
For much of the past year, internal discussions have leaned towards a new-build stadium in nearby Leazes Park, and staff were even shown early concept videos illustrating what a future Newcastle home could resemble.
The Public Investment Fund (PIF), Newcastle’s majority owners, will ultimately determine the direction, and while they had previously indicated an update would arrive in early 2025, the timeline has now slipped, with no announcement expected before 2026.
One proposal suggested construction could begin while the club keeps playing at St James’ Park, and in theory, this could continue even during Euro 2028.
However, insiders now believe that scenario is unlikely, pushing any major works into late 2028.
Newcastle confirms St James’ Park commitment and ambitious Euro 2028 plans to UEFA
Newcastle City Council’s principal events and culture advisor, Jim Mawdsley, confirmed how much reassurance UEFA required.
“Whatever happens, they will still have a stadium at St James’ Park,” he told The i Paper. He has worked closely with the club for three years to ensure the city would be selected as a host.
Mawdsley admitted that Newcastle were initially hesitant because of stadium uncertainty but said they are now fully committed.
He emphasised the wider benefits for the city and confirmed plans for a 20,000-capacity fan zone at an “iconic location” to enhance the tournament experience.
There is also ambition for Newcastle to host future UEFA finals, and Mawdsley suggested the Europa League or Conference League could be realistic targets in the 2030s, viewing Euro 2028 as the perfect launchpad to showcase the city on a major international stage.
FGG Says
Newcastle’s stance that nothing significant will happen to St James’ Park until after Euro 2028, is both a blessing and a frustration. The delay gives the club time to refine long-term plans, especially given the challenges of expanding on the current site.
But it also means supporters must wait years for the modern, larger stadium many feel is essential for Newcastle’s growing ambitions.
What is obvious is that PIF are taking a cautious, strategic route, balancing fan expectations, city partnerships, and UEFA commitments. When the final decision arrives, it will shape Newcastle United for generations, and the groundwork being done now shows this is a far bigger project than many realised.