Unique Records and Financial Highlights Set to Mark Euro 2024
The upcoming Euro 2024 in Germany is expected to be a landmark tournament, not only due to the remarkable players and historical milestones but also the substantial financial implications. From record-breaking football legends like Cristiano Ronaldo and Pepe to the unequal distribution of costs and profits, the championship promises to be memorable in many ways.
In terms of player records, 39-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo is set to appear in his sixth European Championship, aiming to increase his all-time high of 14 Euro goals. Likewise, 41-year-old Pepe could become the oldest player in the tournament's history, surpassing Hungarian goalkeeper Gabor Kiraly. Alongside Ronaldo, veterans like Luka Modric and Ivan Perisic are also gearing up for possibly their final major tournament, aiming to leave a lasting impact.
On the youthful end of the spectrum, players like Lamin Yamal and Kacper Kozlowski are set to make headlines. Yamal, a Spanish prodigy who recently debuted at just 16, aims to break records as the youngest goal scorer. Meanwhile, the Turkish squad boasts a significant number of talents under 20, such as Real Madrid’s Arda Guler.
Euro 2024 is also drawing attention for its financial aspects. UEFA projects record profits of 1.75 billion euros from anticipated revenues of 2.4 billion euros, primarily attributed to TV rights and sponsorships. However, the fiscal setup has sparked criticism. The host cities bear much of the event's EUR 295 million cost, while UEFA, benefitting from tax exemptions, reaps the majority of the profit.
The tournament is putting a spotlight on how the preparation costs have surged. Berlin, for example, is spending 40 million euros more than initially budgeted, while all host cities have incurred significantly higher expenses compared to the initial estimates during the bidding process. Despite the financial strain, local officials, like Düsseldorf Mayor Stephan Keller, argue that the influx of tourists and the global exposure will eventually balance the costs.
Among the coaching staff, there are notable mentions. Luciano Spalletti, now coaching Italy, previously led Zenit Saint Petersburg to multiple titles. Meanwhile, Julian Nagelsmann, at 36, will be the youngest coach, tasked with leading Germany to a potentially luck-breaking home victory.
As Euro 2024 draws near, the high stakes involving both veteran and emerging talents, along with the multifaceted economic impact, make it a highly anticipated event in the football world.
- The 2024 European Championship in Germany will feature ten host cities, each preparing extensively to accommodate thousands of fans. This massive undertaking includes investments in infrastructure and transport to ensure seamless operations during the event.
- Ronaldo's incredible journey from debuting in Euro 2004 to potentially concluding his Euro career in 2024 epitomizes the essence of longevity and excellence. His dedication to the game continues to inspire many, despite playing now in a lower-tier league compared to European football’s top levels.
- Financially, the debate over UEFA's tax practices and the uneven burden on host cities highlights the complexities involved in organizing such massive tournaments. While UEFA defends its model, cities are left balancing the books, hoping for long-term economic benefits.
- The tournament also underscores the wide age range of players, from the youngest talents ready to break into superstardom to seasoned veterans looking to close their international careers on a high note.
