The Albanian Football Association (AFA) welcomes today’s decision of the UEFA Executive Committee, which grants Albania the right to be one of the host countries for the 2027 UEFA European Under-21 Championship.
The tournament, which will be played in June 2027, will feature 16 teams representing the best and most exciting young players from the qualifying nations, including many who are already playing in Europe’s top leagues. As one of the host nations, this will also be the first opportunity for Albania’s own emerging generation of under-21 footballers to play in a major international tournament.
AFA President Mr Armand Duka said: “This is a very significant decision by UEFA, because the 2027 Under-21 Championship will be more than a football tournament. It will be a catalyst for breaking down barriers, enhancing mutual understanding and creating a more positive future for the people of Albania and Serbia. It will also show the world what is possible when people focus on a common objective, inspired by the power of football”.
Mr Duka added: “This will be the biggest sports tournament in Albania’s history. As such, it presents a springboard for us to upgrade stadiums and other football facilities across the country, with the support of UEFA. It will also create a lasting legacy to inspire the next generation of players, volunteers and football supporters in both countries”.
The two nations will each host eight of the 16 teams competing in the tournament, with the teams playing in their designated host country until the Final, which will be held at the National Arena in Tirana. The National Arena has capacity for 22,000 spectators and hosted the Final of the UEFA Europa Conference League in 2022. The other 2027 Under-21 championship matches hosted by Albania will be played at the “Loro Boriçi” stadium in Shkodër; the “Elbasan Arena” in Elbasan; and “Arena Egnatia” in Rrogozhinë.
