UEFA EURO 2024 in Germany went beyond incredible gameplay and memorable moments on the pitch. It was a celebration of football’s impact on society, setting new records and sparking change that extends far beyond the pitch.

Beyond the excitement of matches and the vibrant atmosphere of stadiums and fan zones, UEFA set out to redefine sustainable event planning – a commitment reflected in the report’s publication. UEFA EURO 2024 Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Reportwhich will be launched in Frankfurt on November 1 at 11:00 CET.

Ambition, action and responsibility

With a mission built on ambition, action and responsibility, the tournament aimed to leave a lasting legacy that would extend far beyond the field. A strategic investment of €29.6 million enabled UEFA to implement more than 120 sustainability actions, achieving 95% of its pre-tournament targets.

Through targeted, data-driven initiatives, the tournament significantly reduced its environmental impact, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and proved that football can lead by example.

Reduce carbon emissions

One of the main successes was the reduction of the carbon footprint of the tournament. By providing safe, reliable and enjoyable public and active transport options, EURO 2024 encouraged fans to travel sustainably. Additionally, group stage matches were grouped into regional hubs, reduce air travel by 75% compared to EURO 2016.

In total, these measures enabled a reduction in carbon emissions of 21% compared to initial forecasts. The tournament also adopted a circular economy model through its 4R principles – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Recover – which resulted in a 36% reduction in waste compared to EURO 2016.

In addition, the creation of a unique center of its kind Climate Fund of 7 million euros has supported 272 sustainable infrastructure projects for amateur clubs and regional associations across Germany, leaving a lasting environmental legacy.

Nancy Faeser, German Federal Minister of the Interior and Community, said: “Hosting UEFA EURO 2024 was a very special occasion for our country. Germany presented itself as a good host and we had the opportunity to show what our country stands for: respect, diversity and democratic values. It was a peaceful and safe tournament. These four weeks have brought us closer together as a company in the heart of Europe. Together, we were able to achieve our goal of organizing a tournament that was sustainable in all respects, thus setting standards for future major sporting events in Germany – in social, environmental and economic terms. »

Create lasting positive change

UEFA via Getty Images

UEFA has also prioritized social impact and respect for human rights. Improved services in the stadium allowed more than 10,000 disabled fans to feel the energy of live matches. Rapid response initiatives combatted abuse and discrimination in real time, both online and in person at sites. Match observers attended all high-risk matches, while UEFA worked with Meta, X and TikTok to monitor social media accounts for abuse. In total, 46 targeted actions protected the rights, safety and dignity of all fans, players and staff.

Affordability and inclusiveness were key to making the tournament accessible to everyone. UEFA has made 387,000 tickets available for just €30, ensuring fans from all walks of life can attend. Additionally, all 10 venues offered healthy food and beverage options to support spectator well-being.

Good governance was at the heart of EURO 2024, with a strong emphasis on education, transparency and accountability. Through initiatives such as the #FootbALL and 4R campaigns, UEFA has reached 5.4 billion viewers across the world, demonstrating how sustainability and football can go hand in hand to create lasting positive change.

The same ESG framework is applied to UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 in Switzerland, as well as all UEFA competition finals.