Israel competing against England in the UEFA U-19 European Championship finals in Trnava, Slovakia on July 1, 2022. Photo: REUTERS/Radovan Stoklasa

Israel has been chosen to host the Union of European Football Associations’ (UEFA) Under-19 Championship in 2027, the UEFA’s executive committee announced on Tuesday following its meeting in Limassol, Cyprus.

The finals will feature eight teams, including Israel, and will also conclude the first edition of a new three-stage qualifying format announced this week by UEFA, the governing body of soccer in Europe.

Moshe Shino Zuares, chairman of the Israeli Football Association, said that the UEFA’s decision to give hosting duties to Israel in 2027 “is yet another heartwarming testament to the immense respect we command within UEFA,” according to Israeli media outlets. “Every time we have been entrusted with the privilege of hosting a significant tournament, we have set high standards and consistently raised the bar.”

“A significant part of this success is owed to the Israeli audience and its profound love for football,” Zuares added. “They turn out in great numbers to support our national team, creating unforgettable experiences for all involved. We have diligently worked to secure this hosting opportunity.”

Tuesday’s announcement follows recent strong performances by Israel’s youth soccer teams.

Israel’s Under-19 national team made it for the first time ever to the finals of the UEFA Under-19 European Championship in 2022, and this summer the Jewish state won the bronze medal at the Under-20 World Cup in Argentina. Meanwhile, the Israeli Under-21 national team reached the semi-finals of the European Championship this year and secured a spot in the Olympic Games, which has not happened since 1976.

Northern Ireland will host the 2024 final tournament of the European Under-19 Championship and the following year’s finals will be held in Romania. The UEFA additionally announced on Tuesday that Wales will host the UEFA European Under-19 Championship finals in 2026.