Albania, Serbia to Co-Host 2027 Under-21 Euros

UEFA announced that Albania and Serbia will co-host the 2027 Under-21 European Championship, marking a significant collaborative step for the historically rival nations. The tournament will feature 16 teams competing across eight stadiums, four in each country, with the opening match in Serbia and the final in Albania. This joint bid is seen as a gesture of reconciliation, especially in light of the tense relations stemming from the Kosovo conflict and past incidents during football matches. Both nations will automatically qualify for the tournament, with 14 additional teams determined through qualifiers. The Albanian Football Association expressed hopes that the tournament will enhance mutual understanding while also improving local football infrastructure. This event is poised to be the largest sports tournament in Albania's history and a potential catalyst for positive change in regional relations.