Germany or Hungary lined-up to replace Ukraine admits Platini

By Andrew Warshaw

May 10 – Germany or Hungary could be invited to stage some 2012 European Championship games if Ukraine fails to meet targets for stadium redevelopment, UEFA President Michel Platini (pictured) has warned.

The finals are due to be co-hosted with Poland but work on stadiums and infrastructure in Ukraine have been lagging behind schedule, prompting constant questions about the wisdom of UEFA’s original decision.

Platini told the German federation’s website that Poland could theoretically stage the event in six stadiums, with UEFA asking either Germany or Hungary to provide two venues.

Currently, the two hosts are scheduled to provide four stadiums each for the tournament.

Time is running out for Ukraine, with UEFA is expected to decide by the end of June whether it should strip the country of co-hosting rights.

After visiting the country last month, Platini issued a two-month deadline to get their house in order.

He has always insisted that there is no plan B but has now admitted there might have to be.

The national stadium in Kiev is a particular concern and Platini said: “If logistic problems persist in Ukraine, then we will find another way.

“The Executive Committee will then meet and make a decision.

An option could be to have six venues in Poland.

“Maybe UEFA could also ask Hungary or Germany if they could or would want to jump in with two stadiums.

“We are watching very carefully what’s happening in Ukraine, but we still have some time.

“It’s clear that something has to happen in the next few weeks.

“But I’d like to stress once again: at the moment we are not thinking about it.

“We believe Ukraine will complete all the necessary work on time and that the European Championship will take place as planned.”

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