EuroCup

The EuroCup is the primary association football (soccer) competition by senior men’s national teams part of UEFA (Union of European Football Associations.) It was originally called the UEFA European Nations Cup (EuroCup) but now is the UEFA European Championship. There have been 14 championships won by 9 different national teams. It is the second most watched soccer tournament in the world next to the World Cup. This EuroCup is one of the most significant sporting events held in Europe of them all. The competition has been held since 1960, even though the idea was proposed in 1927 by Henri Delaunay who was the French Football Federation’s secretary general. The first tournament didn’t take place until 1960 though, 3 years after his death. The trophy that the winning team receives is named in honor of Henri. The most successful teams have been Germany and Spain, each holding three titles. Every 4 years, it takes place somewhere new, usually in or near the location of the last winners nation. Every match holds a different purpose and it is and always has been very hyped in Europe around these games. **To** qualify into the tournament is quite hard and the 2016 Cup is the first one to include a total of 24 teams. It will be held in France from June 10 to July 10, which is the time we will there. I find that quite intriguing and amazing. There is a group stage that consists of 6 groups of 4 teams followed by a knockout stage including 3 rounds and the final. The competition is quite complex leading up to the final and those who qualify are put under immense pressure for their nation. So far qualified for 2016 Cup is France and England. I think it will be quite incredible to be in Europe during this event, we will experience something so exotic and fun, a once in a lifetime experience.