Serbia and Albania to co-host 2027 UEFA under-21 Euros
Serbia and Albania have decided to work as a team to host the 2027 UEFA Under-21 European Championship. This is surprising as the two countries have a history of conflicts, both in politics and in football.
During the Euro 2024 tournament, some Albanian fans shouted violent slogans against Serbs, which led UEFA to investigate and fine both teams for their behaviour. There have also been problems with nationalist chants and banners in earlier matches.
Aiming for unity through football
Despite their past issues, Branko Radujko, from the Serbian Football Federation, believes the tournament can show that people can come together. He also thinks that if everyone works for a common goal, they can set aside their differences.
Armand Duko, the President of the Albanian Football Association, also sees this event as a chance to improve relations between the two nations. However, UEFA and the football leaders did not discuss or leave a statement regarding the past issues concerning racist chants and nationalist displays.
Serbia and Albania’s joint application was the only bid to host the 2027 competition with the hopes of easing the tension between the two countries. The UEFA Under-21 European Championship happens every two years, while the senior tournament is every four years.
