Serbia and Albania to co-host Under-21 Euros in 2027
- Serbia and Albania have submitted a joint bid to co-host the men's Under-21 European Championship in 2027, aiming to foster better relations amid historical tensions.
- The bid is the only one that met UEFA's deadline for detailed tournament plans, with the decision to be made on December 16.
- This collaboration is seen as a significant step towards overcoming political issues between the two nations, despite some negative reactions from fans.
In a significant move towards reconciliation, Serbia and Albania have teamed up to co-host the men's Under-21 European Championship in 2027. This collaboration, announced in May 2023, is part of a broader effort to address and overcome the historical political tensions that have characterized relations between the two nations, particularly since the conflicts of the 1990s. The joint bid was the only one to meet UEFA's deadline for detailed tournament plans, with a decision on the hosting rights expected on December 16, 2023. The tournament will feature 16 teams and require eight stadiums to accommodate 31 matches. Armand Duka, the leader of the Albanian soccer federation and a UEFA vice president, emphasized that the project is fundamentally about football, carrying a positive political message. However, the announcement has not been without controversy, as some fans and interest groups have expressed negative reactions to the cooperation, reflecting the lingering tensions. The historical backdrop includes the 2008 declaration of independence by Kosovo, which Serbia does not recognize, further complicating relations. Incidents during recent matches, including nationalist chants and politically charged displays by fans, have highlighted the ongoing challenges. Despite these issues, UEFA has shown support for the joint bid, with upcoming meetings planned in both Belgrade and Tirana, indicating a commitment to fostering unity through sport.