World Cup doubts see UK-Ireland drop 2030 bid, target Euros
By ROB HARRIS
AP Global Soccer Writer
Doubts and disputes over FIFA’s push for biennial World Cups have contributed to Britain and Ireland dropping plans for a joint bid to host the 2030 edition, opting instead to try to stage the 2028 European Championship. A potential rival also moved aside with Italy switching its focus on bidding for Euro 2028 from the 2024 tournament. The British Isles nations determined that there was more certainty bidding for the UEFA tournament, while FIFA’s plans for the World Cup beyond the 2026 edition in the United States, Canada and Mexico are in flux.