Scotland And Wales Mull Euro 2016 Bid

The Scottish and Welsh Football Associations are to enter initial talks regarding a joint bid to host the European football championship in 2016.

An SFA spokesman has confirmed that talks will take place in the next few weeks about a joint bid although the proposal is ‘tentative’.

The 2016 tournament is being expanded to 24 teams making it difficult for small nations to stage the event alone.

Northern Ireland have also been linked with a joint bid alongside the two nations although Scotland would probably favour a proposal in partnership with Wales.

A UEFA spokesman confirmed that bid submissions are likely to be sought by spring 2009 and the tournament expansion may see the number of suitable grounds required rise from eight to at least 10.

The criteria should be formally announced by early next year, which would allow the SFA and their Welsh counterparts to discuss the matter further at the annual meeting of home nations in February.

If the project gets beyond the initial stage, a feasibility study would be commissioned to examine the infrastructure regarding accommodation, transport and improved stadiums.

Scotland and the Republic of Ireland made a joint bid for Euro 2008 but lost out early in the decision-making process; not even making the final four candidates for selection.

Poland and Ukraine are co-hosting the 2012 European Championship but have been beset by governance issues.