Ulster Unionist Party Leader Robin Swann MLA has given his full backing to the Irish Football Association (IFA) as it bids to host the UEFA Super Cup in Belfast, by signing a letter in support of the bid.
Robin Swann said:
“Northern Ireland football is still on a high after qualification for last year’s Euro 2016 tournament in France, and the National side currently sits second in its World Cup qualifying group. The redevelopment of Windsor Park has delivered a stadium which all of Northern Ireland can be proud of and the new National Stadium at Windsor Park is more than capable of hosting a high profile club match like the UEFA Super Cup.
“This year’s match will be played in Skopje in Macedonia on August 8th and will feature Real Madrid and Manchester United, who were winners of the Champions League and Europa League respectively, and undoubtedly two of the giants of the European and World game.
“In addition to the prestige of hosting such a showpiece game, it is estimated that the one-day event will generate approximately £2.3 million to the local economy and bring up to 10,000 travelling fans to the host city.
“I am therefore delighted to join other party leaders in adding my signature to support the bid by the IFA to host the 2019 Super Cup, and no doubt local football fans will be hoping that they will have the opportunity to see clubs of a similar stature in Belfast.”