Skip to main content

Ukraine, Poland & UEFA unite for Euro 2012

Poland and Ukraine have been criticised for the slow progress of preparations since being awarded the tournament last year and European football's governing body UEFA is subjecting both countries to close scrutiny after suggesting the event could be moved.

But Martin Kallen, UEFA's special adviser to president Michel Platini, was upbeat on his first visit to Kiev.

"I think a lot of things have been done and there is a lot of work in front of us. But I am positive that the work will be accomplished," he told a news conference alongside the heads of the Polish and Ukrainian football federations.

"I trust fully what was guaranteed."

"For sure -- 100 percent -- Euro-2012 will take place in Ukraine and in Poland," Lato told reporters.

"I can guarantee today that that for sure until 2012 there will be no conflict between the minister and the Polish football association," he said.

"Poland and Ukraine are well aware that it is a key condition that stadiums in their capitals be built in timely fashion.

"If they are not ready, then Euro 2012 will not take place in either Kiev or Warsaw," he told reporters at a press conference in Sofia on Wednesday.