Construction work at Kiev's "Olympic stadium" (AFP Photo)
Ukraine may lose Euro 2012 – UEFA boss
Published 16 April, 2009, 14:01
UEFA chief Michel Platini has stopped by the Ukrainian capital, Kiev, to get an update on the country's preparations for Euro 2012, which they will host together with Poland.
Local officials were quick to reassure that the jewel in the Euro 2012 crown, the city's Olympic Stadium, will have its renovations completed in time for the tournament.
However, concerns over security and construction delays, due to the recent economic downturn, may cast a shadow on their bid.
Platini hinted that the event can be moved if the country fails to meet the scheduled timetable. Scotland has offered many times to step in as a replacement host.
Next month, UEFA's executive committee will chose from six to eight host cities in the two countries, with the Frenchman telling reporters that “it will be impossible for Ukraine to lose the championship.”
“We have standards, which we're basing on other European Championships that we have organized, or that FIFA has organized through the World Cup. There are standards. These are very high standards that have always been linked to modern countries. Today I said, in my speech at the congress, this is a big hurdle for Poland and for Ukraine and UEFA to organize this European Championship in Poland and in Ukraine,” Michel Platini said.
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