UEFA European Women's Championship boost for the city
Excitement is already building in Brighton & Hove ahead of the UEFA European Women’s Championship in 2021.
The American Express Community Stadium is one of nine match venues for the prestigious competition. Last Friday’s qualifying draw saw 47 competing countries set into nine groups. As the host nation, England is already through to the knockout stages.
Brighton & Hove Albion, along with Brighton & Hove City Council and Sussex County Football Association are working together to prepare for the tournament and host top-level European football in the city
Brighton & Hove Albion Women’s team manager and former England manager Hope Powell explains how women’s football is developing both nationally and locally, how the Albion is investing in the women’s game and why the stadium and wider city is the perfect location for such a high profile event.
Brighton & Hove has a successful track record in hosting major sporting events, including the Rugby World Cup in 2015.
In 2014, the city welcomed Stage 7 of the Tour of Britain bike race and the annual Brighton Marathon is the UK’s second largest.
EURO 2021 will showcase the city to an international audience, supporting tourism and the local economy. In 2017, when England reached the semi-finals, the UEFA women’s Euro viewing figures reached a global audience of 165 million.
Prestigious tournament
Albion chief executive and deputy chairman, Paul Barber, said: “Our stadium has a proven track record and a growing reputation for hosting some of the world’s biggest sporting events, and it is great that we will have the chance to do so once again.
“We will continue to work very closely with Sussex County FA and Brighton & Hove City Council, in supporting The FA with hosting such a prestigious tournament.”
Councillor Alan Robins, chair of the council’s tourism, development and culture committee, added: “We’re over the moon to be one of the host cities for EURO 2021.It’s a fantastic boost for women’s football in the region and a great accolade for the city.
“As a host city we have a real opportunity to help raise the profile of women’s football locally and nationally.”
Showcasing skills
Sussex County FA chief executive, Ken Benham, commented: “We’re delighted that some of the finest female players from across Europe will be showcasing their skills right here in Sussex.
“The tournament has the power to inspire and we hope it will encourage more people into the game.
“We have opportunities for all ages and abilities to get involved with football, so we’re really looking forward to the increased exposure the championships will bring to the local area.”