The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to part-hosting Euro 2020 next year. 

Dublin's Aviva Stadium was scheduled to host three group matches and a last-16 contest in the 16th European Championships.

However, the competition has been deferred a year as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, but will keep its Euro 2020 moniker.

The Government confirmation is a pre-requisite from UEFA of all twelve host cities who needed to do so before April 30.

The Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Mr Shane Ross, will now be writing to UEFA to make this commitment.

Ross said tonight, "While it can be hard at times to see beyond the current public health emergency, we have to plan for the future and happier times.

"We were all looking forward to hosting the EUROs this Summer and I am pleased that the Government has recommitted to hosting next year, subject to public health advice.

"Since the outset of this project it has been the goal of the Government, the FAI, Dublin City Council and other stakeholders that Dublin be the best of the 12 hosting cities – that goal remains.

"It will be great opportunity to remind the world of how well we can deliver top class sporting events and to boost our international profile in a positive way."

An economic study claimed hosting duties could see between €106million to €128million tourist spend in the country, with Exchequer revenues of €26m.

Minister of State Brendan Griffin added, "Minister of State Brendan Griffin said “The rescheduled tournament will provide an opportunity for football to resonate more strongly than ever and, hopefully, will provide a much-needed boost to the millions of football enthusiasts who cherish the game as well as a welcome benefit to Dublin and Ireland.

"The Government very much welcomes that opportunity and remains fully committed to working with all of the local organisers and UEFA to mount a very successful UEFA EURO 2020 in Dublin in 2021, subject to the public health advice of the time."