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      Who was Uefa General Secretary Henri Delaunay and why is the Euro 2024 trophy named after him?

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      HENRI Delaunay was such an influential footballing figure that he had one of the most coveted cups in the beautiful game named after him.With Euro 2024 already lighting up our summers, here’s everything you need to know about the former Uefa general secretary.The late Henri Delaunay is often referred to as the founder of the EurosCredit: Not known, clear with picture deskWho was UEFA General Secretary Henri Delaunay?Henri Delaunay was the first general secretary of Uefa and one of the biggest advocates for the European Championship.Often referred to as the founder of the Euros, his vision and dedication were instrumental in the competition’s creation.Born in Paris in 1883, he embarked on his football career when he was 20, taking on the role of secretary at French side Etoile des Deux Lacs.In 1906, at the tender age of 23, he was named as general secretary of the forerunner of the French Football Federation (FFF) — the French Interfederal Committee.read more on euro 2024By the age of 26 he was the club’s president and a big player in the FFF.In 1920, he was appointed by Fifa to help establish the Referees Committee.He was also heavily involved in the founding of Uefa in 1954, spearheading a move towards forming a group of Europe’s national football associations.Why is the Euro 2024 trophy named after Henri Delaunay?Throughout Henri’s life, he dreamt of an international competition comprised of just European nations.Most read in Euro 2024Few men have left such a distinct mark, by the sheer force of their personality, on such a universal activity as football, as Henri Delaunay50 Years of Uefa (2004)But before his dream came to fruition, he passed away in 1955 at the age of 72 — three years before the inaugural Euros (then called the European Nations’ Cup).This is why both versions of the trophy have been named after him.As the 50 Years of Uefa book published in 2004 put it: “Few men have left such a distinct mark, by the sheer force of their personality, on such a universal activity as football, as Henri Delaunay.” Who designed the Henri Delaunay cup?The original Henri Delaunay trophy was created by French jeweller Michel Chobillon in 1958.In 2008, Uefa commissioned a new version of the trophy, which was redesigned in 2008 by Asprey, London.Despite being bigger and heavier than its predecessor, the redesign retained the classic design elements of the original.It weighs in at 8kg, stands 60cm tall and features a wider base than the previous incarnation to support the extra weight.The new Henri Delaunay cup was first awarded in 2008 when Spain won the title.READ MORE SUN STORIESHeidi Beckenbauer blew a kiss to the sky after placing the trophy down before the Euro 2024 opener between Germany and ScotlandPrior to kick off in the Euro 2024 opener between Germany and Scotland in Munich, the late, great Franz Beckenbauer’s wife Heidi was tasked with bringing out the Henri Delaunay trophy.She fought back tears as she headed out onto the pitch at the Allianz Arena while fans clapped in appreciation.How England will line up after big names axed from Euros More

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      Major Euro 2028 change with co-host set to DROP OUT and allow Wembley to host at least one more match

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      NORTHERN IRELAND is reportedly set to DROP OUT as co-hosts of Euro 2028 due to the financial constraints of redeveloping Casement Park.If that happens Wembley – who will host the semi-finals and final – will be handed the opportunity to put on at least one more match.Northern Ireland are likely to drop out of Euro 2028 hosting dutiesAs the the redevelopment of Casement Park is expected to cost around £308mIf Northern Ireland do drop out Wembley will put on one extra game at Euro 2028Credit: AFPLikewise, the four matches that Belfast is due to host will be spread among Cardiff’s Principality Stadium, Hampden Park in Glasgow and Dublin’s Aviva Stadium. Uefa expects Northern Ireland to withdraw from hosting duties because of problems over raising the money to redevelop their stadium.Casement Park is yet to the fully funded with the latest estimated costs sitting at £308m.There have been plans to build a modern 34,000 capacity stadium on the site for more than 10 years.read more football newsBut political instability, issues behind the scenes and planning permission U-turns combined to keep the bulldozers away.A former senior Uefa strategist believes Belfast and the rest of the north will miss out on a huge opportunity, both financially and political, with the likely loss of Euro 2028.Ian Mallon told an Irish news outlet: “It is so unique for any city to be considered as a host venue for such a major tournament.”The mix of support, disinterest, and outright opposition to the use of Casement Park is completely irrational and ridiculous.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSecretary of State Chris Heaton-Harris has pledged £62.5m, with the Irish government promising £42.8m and the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) offering £15m.The UK government is allegedly prepared to contribute, but it is yet to give an exact figure.Sharlene Mawdsley & Sophie Becker beam as European Championship medallists return home to rapturous receptionHow the home nations and Ireland could qualify for Uefa 2028England and the other host nations will still have to play qualifying matches for Euro 2028.Uefa will only award a maximum of two automatic qualification spots and it will hold these in reserve for any host nation that fails to make it. If three fail to qualify, the two best-ranked teams will take the reserve spots.Uefa is set to award Cardiff the opening match of the European Championship in 2028 in a blow to hopes in England that Wembley would host the tournament’s curtain-raiser. More

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      Euro 2024: What happens if teams are level on points, goal difference and goals scored?

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      THE Uefa Euro 2024 tournament is fast approaching and is set to deliver exciting games and fierce competition.But as the European Championship progresses the points table in each group stage will constantly evolve determining which teams will advance to the knockout stages. The Euro 2024 group stage has fierce competition to see the best team through to the knockout stagesCredit: gettyHow do Uefa points work?The Uefa Euro point system is clear and simple – rewarding teams based on their performance during matches.
      Win: A team earns 3 points for a victory.
      Draw: Both teams in a draw receive 1 point each.
      Loss: A losing team earns 0 points.
      Teams are ranked in their groups according to the number of points they have earned, and the top teams will progress to the knockout rounds.Additional factors such as goal difference and goals scored come into play if teams are tied on points.READ MORE IN EURO 2024PLAY DREAM TEAM EUROS NOW!The best fantasy football game for this summer’s tournament.

      When does the Knockout Stage start?After the group stage matches are complete, the top teams from each group will advance to the knockout stage. The format typically includes a round of 16, quarterfinals, semifinals, and the grand final to crown the European champion.The Euro 2024 knockout stage begins on June 29.Here’s the breakdown of the tournament schedule:Most read in Football
      Group Stage: June 14 – June 26
      Round of 16: June 29 – July 2
      Quarter-finals: July 5 – July 6
      Semi-finals: July 10 – July 11
      Final: July 14
      How many teams qualify for Euro 2024?A total of 24 teams will compete in the UEFA Euro 2024.What happens if teams are tied on points?If two or more teams are level on points at the end of the group stage, a head-to-head record is used as the first tie-breaker to determine their final rankings.This is followed by goal difference and goals scored in the matches between the teams in question, followed by most wins and then disciplinary records across the group as a whole.Should two teams be tied on points, goals scored and goals conceded at the end of the group stage – with no tiebreaker separating them from any other team – a penalty shootout will dictate their final placings.How many teams advance from each group?The top two teams from each group advance to the knockout stages.Then the four best third-placed teams will also proceed to the next round.Can teams from the same group meet again in the knockout stages?The tournament is laid out to prevent teams from the same group from playing again until later in the knockout stages. More

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      Football in England BANNED for four weeks as little-known rules take effect ahead of Euro 2024

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      A LITTLE-KNOW FA rule has seen football in England BANNED ahead of Euro 2024.The England national team is gearing up for its European Championship campaign in Germany as it looks to go one better than runners-up at Euro 2020.Football games in England are not permitted between June 1 and June 30Credit: GettyFA rules only allow for only a few exceptions including national representative matchesCredit: GettyThat has seen two friendlies – one a 3-0 win against Bosnia & Herzegovina and a second against Iceland – booked before the tournament proper begins on June 14.However, fans wanting to play football of their own will not be able to do so until after June 30, at least in an 11-a-side capacity.This is thanks to an FA rule which stops all competitive 11-a-side matches during the “Close Season” – including grassroots and youth level.Under the rules, no affiliated teams or referees are allowed to participate in games unless they are expressly given permission to do so.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe rules state: “The Close Season shall be defined as the period between June 1 and June 30 inclusive each year…”No matches other than those permitted and played in accordance with paragraph (c) of these rules may be played in the Close Season.”FA “Close SeasonThe close season is between June 1 and June 30 each calendar year.
      11 v 11 games cannot be played in June.
      The following may be played in the Close Season:- Small Sided formats (3 v 3, 4v 4, 5v 5, 6 v 6, 7 v 7, 8 v 8, 9v 9) can be played in June – This includes festivals and single matches
      – Those  matches organised in connection with works’ clubs sports days on private grounds and at fetes and similar sports functions
      – Matches between Army, Navy and Royal Air Force teams and teams of the Auxiliary Forces in Competitions whilst in camp 
      – Matches involving members of scouts, guides and similar organisations in Competitions whilst in camp
      – Matches for national representative teams or clubs played under the auspices of FIFA or UEFA; 
      – Matches between Clubs in the Premier League, the EFL, FAWSL and FAWC for the following season 
      – Single day, weekend and bank holiday competitions and festivals meeting the criteria and receiving sanction; and B8.3.8 Pilot projects granted dispensation by The Association or sanctioning Affiliated Association
      With the exception of charity matches, all competing teams must be affiliated.

      They add that only 9v9 and below matches are allowed in June, including festival and single matches. Among the other allowances to play 11v11 are fixtures organised privately as a clubs sports day, matches played between the Army, Navy, RAF and Auxiliary Forces whilst in camp and for charity events.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThat means Soccer Aid is obviously not under threat.Matches for national representative teams under Fifa or Uefa are permitted too, hence why the Three Lions and Lionesses are able to play international matches this month.Joe Cole and Rio Ferdinand pick their England starting 11 for opening game of EurosGareth Southgate’s squad have their final warm-up match this Friday, before kicking off the tournament on June 16th against Serbia.In that time, Southgate will need to cut his provisional 33-player team down to 26. The likes of Eberechi Eze and Cole Palmer laid down their credentials for a spot on the plane in the 3-0 win in last night’s match against Bosnia and Herzegovina. More

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      Man Utd learn Europa League fate as Uefa make decision after club faced relegation to Conference League

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      MANCHESTER UNITED will be allowed into next season’s Europa League as Uefa prepare to make an announcement on multi-club ownership rules.The Red Devils secured Europa League football after beating Manchester City in the FA Cup final.Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s clubs Manchester United and Nice are both set to compete in next season’s Europa LeagueCredit: PABut they faced fears of being relegated to the Europa Conference League due to new minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, 71, controlling Ligue 1 side Nice – who have also secured Europa League football.But now, according to The Times, Uefa will permit both of Ratcliffe’s clubs to participate in the competition for the 2024/25 campaign.Uefa’s Club Financial Control Board is expected to issue a ruling on Monday regarding multi-club ownership that will allow the teams to play in the same European tournament.This will be subject to certain conditions including Nice being operated by a “blind trust”, a panel approved by Uefa.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe same procedure will enable City Football Group clubs Man City and Girona to compete in the Champions League.The “blind trust” model was used this season to allow Red Bird Capital-owned clubs AC Milan and Toulouse to play in the Europa League.Girona’s links to the City Football Group have been scrutinised after three of their key players were loaned or sold via the ownership’s influence.Uefa’s alteration to their rules will act as a “temporary alternative… granted on an exceptional basis for the 2024-25 Uefa competitions”.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe report states the rules could change and that “not as much leeway” will be given in future seasons.Ratcliffe’s Ineos own 27.7 per cent of Man Utd, while the Glazer family still hold a controlling stake in the club.Who could be Man Utd’s next manager after Ten Hag?British billionaire Ratcliffe also owns Swiss side Lausanne-Sport, but they failed to qualify for European football this season after finishing 10th in their country’s 12-team top flight. More

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      What is the official song of Euro 2024?

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      UEFA have revealed their official song for Euro 2024 – ‘FIRE’.The track, which features Grammy nominated group OneRepublic, house producers MEDUZA and pop star Leony, is already a hit online.MEDUZA, OneRepublic and Leony follow in the footsteps of Enrique Iglesias and David Guetta, among others, as the official UEFA #EURO2024 song is released 🎶A look back at previous official EURO songs 👇— UEFA EURO 2024 (@EURO2024) May 10, 2024

      With less than a month until the tournament gets underway in Munich, Germany on June 14, the track is already living up to its name.The anthem was written by American pop rock band OneRepublic, and produced by Italian trio MEDUZA.The official song merges the Italian group’s anthemic house set-up with the German singer-songwriter Leony’s pop expertise into one three-minute track.’FIRE’ embodies the fervour and spirit of football and music fans alike.READ MORE EURO NEWSUefa stated that the song looks to promote the vibrancy of football, while at the same time, aiming to become a staple anthem by appealing to music enthusiasts. Uefa EURO 2024 tournament director Philipp Lahm said: “Football and music both have the power to unite people.””When I think of EURO ’96, I have ‘Football’s Coming Home’ in my head.”At UEFA EURO 2024, we want to celebrate Europe’s diversity and strengthen the feeling of togetherness. Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”Good sport and beautiful music should carry us through the summer – with the song ‘FIRE’.”After Ryan Tedder wrote the music and invited MEDUZA and Leony to join him, the unlikely combo spent three months working on the project.’Please don’t play that at matches next season’, beg Luton fans after Coldplay reveal new song for Hatters at festivalTedder said: “We wrote it for football and music fans everywhere, hoping it will inspire and unite us as we count down to the Euros. “The #LightYourFire campaign is an invitation to fans worldwide to join us on this journey.”Supporters will have the chance to see the anthem performed live by the three artists during the closing ceremony, which takes place ahead of the final at Olympiastadion Berlin on Sunday 14 July. More

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      Thomas Tuchel could face Uefa BAN handing Man Utd major dilemma over managerial target

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      THOMAS TUCHEL could face a Uefa ban for his Real Madrid ref rage.And that might mean the German is unable to take charge of Manchester United’s next European game if he gets the Old Trafford job.Thomas Tuchel was fuming over a late offside flag in Bayern’s defeat at MadridCredit: ReutersTuchel was left fuming last night after Real Madrid produced a stunning late comeback to beat Bayern Munich 2-1 to reach the Champions League final where they’ll face Borussia Dortmund.The former Chelsea chief is still the bookies’ favourite to replace Erik ten Hag despite Bayern Munich’s failure to win a trophy for the first time since 2012.And the threat of a Euro ban is now hanging over him after he launched a post-match attack on the Polish officials after Wednesday’s controversial exit.Assistant ref Tomasz Listkiewicz raised the flag against Noussair Mazraoui when the ball was lofted into the Madrid box in stoppage time.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAs the ball was nodded down by Thomas Muller for Matthijs de Ligt to fire home, 2022 World Cup Final ref Szymon Marciniak blew the whistle, ruling out the goal.Video images suggest the Bayern player was onside but the call was so tight that the flag should not have gone up so soon.Bayern players were flabbergasted, with Dutch defender de Ligt revealing both officials had apologised to him.In his post-match press conference, Tuchel said “It’s against every rule of modern football.Most read in Champions LeagueBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”He did it against Alfonso Davies as well, when he could never be sure.”To have the balls, the guts, to raise the flag was a huge call and the wrong call.Watch Antonio Rudiger bring back iconic Chelsea chair celebration in wild scenes after Real Madrid win vs Bayern Munich”Then the referee had the chance not to whistle but took the decision to whistle.”That would not have happened on the other side.”Uefa’s Control and Disciplinary Body could now step in and charge Tuchel for accusing the two officials of bias against his side.A decision is likely by the start of next week, although the fact that both officials did admit to an error is likely to see Tuchel avoid any action.Even if he were to be punished, it still might not affect him next season if he takes over at United.The Red Devils are currently sitting eighth in the Premier League table and face a fight to qualify for European football via the league.But they do also have the opportunity to reach the Europa League when they take on Man City in the FA Cup Final at Wembley on May 25.Meanwhile, fans joked that Tuchel had “passed his Man Utd audition” after a number of substitutions backfired spectacularly at the Bernabeu.Bayern looked to be going through after a rocket from Alphonso Davies put them ahead with just 22 minutes to go.Pundits’ verdict on Ten Hag’s futureWhere do the pundits stand on Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United future?
      Michael Owen – He has to go
      “He cannot, simply cannot, manage this team next season. He’s not good enough.”
      Teddy Sheringham – Might stay if he wins Cup but should go
      “If United win the FA Cup, he could stay. But, for me, changes are needed and United need to get it done sooner than later.”
      Jamie Carragher – Sacked
      “I don’t see how Erik ten Hag stays. It’s just performance after performance.”
      Gary Neville – Stay if he wins the FA Cup
      “To sack a manager who’s won two trophies in his first two seasons at the club I think would be extreme.”
      Louis Saha – On the fence
      “I don’t see it as clearly but they need changes from the players but they need changes from him as well.”
      Alan Shearer – Sacked
      “I believe the future of the Man Utd manager is already determined. Even if they win the FA Cup I think he’s gone.”

      They looked to be comfortable heading towards full time and holding Madrid at bay until disaster struck.Real sub Joselu grabbed an 88th-minute equaliser after latching on to a mistake from Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.Then seconds later the ex-Stoke City and Newcastle flop finished from six yards to win it 2-1.The 34-year-old Spaniard’s introduction proved to be a masterstroke – but that was not the only substitution that proved to be a major talking point.Firstly, Tuchel brought on Kim Min-jae for attacker Leroy Sane on 76 minutes despite the South Korean’s nightmare in last week’s first leg, switching to three at the back.But it was the decision to replace 44-goal top scorer Kane, who is still waiting for his first-piece of silverware, with Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting on 86 minutes that left everyone baffled.However, Tuchel told TNT Sports afterwards that the controversial changes were due to injury.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe said: “We started with a front four and all four has to go out with injury or cramp.“Kane was having back problems, it was no longer possible. The front four all said they had to go.”His decision to replace Harry Kane led to fierce criticismCredit: Getty More

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      BBC in major broadcast change with new midweek Match of the Day-style show to begin next season

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      FANS can watch free midweek highlights of the newly-enlarged Champions League on the BBC over the next three seasons.European football’s top domestic competition jumps from 32 to 36 clubs from 2024-25, meaning a rise from 125 games to 189.The Champions League won’t just be pay for view from 2024-25Credit: RexThe Beeb is gearing up to show Wednesday-night highlightsCredit: GettyThe Beeb are “simply thrilled” by their three-year deal with Uefa for a Match of the Day-style show.TNT Sports are losing exclusive rights – but will still show 533 of the 550 live games.Amazon Prime Video will now grab some live action from next term.However, TNT Sports are retaining their exclusivity for the Europa League and Europa Conference League.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut it’s the BBC access to the Champions League that might excite fans most.The highlights package will be available on TV, iPlayer and online.The Beeb’s Director of Sport Barbara Slater has previously said: “We are simply thrilled to have won these rights.”Our reach and ability to bring people together is unrivalled.Most read in Champions LeagueCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”We couldn’t be more delighted that Uefa has recognised the value in our ability to bring the Champions League to the widest possible audience across the UK.”This package of highlights and digital content will allow football fans to follow the Champions League, wherever and however they like.Meet Eva Murati, the Albanian Laura Woods who is glamorous Champions League presenter and lingerie model”The Champions League is a wonderful addition to our portfolio of football output on the BBC and we can’t wait to get started in 2024.” For their part, Uefa have bigged up the Beeb’s international standing for covering sport.Guy-Laurent Epstein, marketing director of European football’s rulers, said: “The BBC brand is synonymous with premium sport.”He too was “thrilled” the Beeb will provide “Wednesday highlights for the very first time”.Uefa’s overall broadcasting deal for 2024-27 will rake in around £1.45bilion – a hefty 20% increase on the current £1.2bn arrangement.Our beautiful game is broken, says Dave KiddBy Dave Kidd
      WHEN Manchester United got lucky in their FA Cup semi-final, Antony’s first instinct was to goad heartbroken opponents Coventry. To rub their noses in the dirt.
      Antony seems to be a vile individual but this isn’t really about Antony. Because Antony is merely a symptom of the hideous sickness within England’s top flight.
      There is so much wrong.
      After our elite clubs persuaded the FA to completely scrap Cup replays — which gave us Ronnie Radford and Ricky Villa and Ryan Giggs — without due recompense or reasoning with the rest of English football.
      The previous day, after his Manchester City side had defeated Chelsea in the other FA Cup semi-final, Pep Guardiola whinged about the fixture scheduling of TV companies who effectively pay much of his £20m salary.
      Up at Wolves, Guardiola’s friend and rival Mikel Arteta was playing the same sad song about fixture congestion, despite his Arsenal side having played two fewer games this season than Coventry — who don’t have £50m squad players to rotate with.
      Chelsea, oh Chelsea. The one-time plaything of a Russian oligarch now owned by financially incontinent venture capitalists who have piddled £1billion on a squad of players who fight like weasels in a sack about who should bask in the personal glory of scoring the penalty that puts them 5-0 up against Everton.
      Read Dave Kidd’s full column as he takes aim at Nottingham Forest, Fulham’s ticket prices, the 39th game, VAR and much more… More