As Wales prepares to host the opening match of UEFA EURO 2028 at the National Stadium of Wales, Cymru legend Chris Gunter has spoken passionately about the memories that shaped his international career and the special connection between the team and its supporters.
Gunter, with 109 international appearances, played a defining role in the modern era of Welsh football. Debuting in 2007 at the age of 17, he represented Cymru at multiple major tournaments, including UEFA EURO 2016 and UEFA EURO 2020, becoming a figure of leadership, consistency and national pride. His connection with The Red Wall has long been one of the symbols of the team’s identity during that time.
Reflecting on EURO 2016: Pride, unity and “a wall of red”
Looking back on Cymru’s historic EURO 2016 journey, Gunter recalls an overwhelming sense of pride at seeing the nation come together on the global stage.
“There were a lot of memories, so many fond ones,” he said. “The memories we had from 2016… there are too many to name, but the overall pride of being on a big stage, seeing how well our country, our flag, and our fans were represented, that stays with you.”
One moment stood out above all others – walking out for Cymru’s first match at the tournament.
“For me, it was walking out for the first game and seeing our corner—our end of fans. Then you look back at the photos and videos and you see that wall of red, the flags from South Wales, Mid Wales, North Wales all together. Whatever part of Wales you’re from, you’re there for Wales. Seeing that united corner is what representing your country in a major tournament is all about.”
An unbreakable bond with The Red Wall
Gunter describes the relationship between players, staff and supporters as unique in world football.
“Unbreakable. So powerful,” he said. “Whether you were a player, a member of staff, or a supporter, you were all there for one thing, for Wales to do well in the tournament.”
He believes that unity grew stronger as the tournament continued, with the whole country coming together, those in the stadium and those watching from fan parks across Wales.
“Even the ones who couldn’t be there felt part of it. The whole country was united. And that’s what makes it so exciting now, being part of the hosts, those additional gatherings of fans will be happening right where the action is.”
Gunter says this bond has remained a defining strength of the national team.
“It’s something other nations would love to have. It means the world to the players and helps them massively on the pitch. It’s always been there, and it always will be and it’ll be on full display come 2028.”
EURO 2028 in Wales is an historic opportunity
For Gunter, the significance of Wales hosting matches at EURO 2028, particularly the opening game, cannot be understated.
“To have the opening game of a major tournament at the National Stadium of Wales is huge,” he said. “All eyes will be on that summer and that first game. We’ll be on the biggest stage, with Europe and the world watching.”
He highlights the years of dedication behind the scenes that made the bid a success.
“It’s not a given to host a game, let alone the opening game. It’s a massive honour. People have worked incredibly hard for many years to make this happen. Everyone should be proud.”
A capital city “painted in red”
With EURO 2028 on the horizon, Gunter can already picture the scenes in Cardiff as fans travel from all corners of Wales to witness a major tournament in their own country.
“Your mind will wander to the build-up before that first game,” he said. “To have fans from every part of Wales travelling into Cardiff… the atmosphere will be something we’ve never experienced.”
He believes the unity and passion of The Red Wall will create a moment the nation will never forget.
“Seeing everyone come together for that one goal… it’ll make a lot of people emotional. Seeing Cardiff and Wales painted in red for days, that makes me massively excited.”
Inspiring the next generation
Gunter is clear about the broader impact that hosting EURO 2028 will have on Welsh football.
“Wales has hosted big events before, the Champions League comes to mind, and people now look at Wales differently. We want to be on the big stage. Hosting a tournament is huge.”
He sees this moment as an opportunity to showcase Welsh football to the world.
“It’s important that the outside world sees our badge, our name, and our worth. What it will do for Welsh football, before, during, and after the tournament will be huge. The game will grow from it.”
A message for the fans — “do what you always do”
Asked what message he would share with supporters, Gunter said The Red Wall already knows its role.
“They’ve proven time and again that they’re there, through the good and the difficult times. They know what they bring.”
His message is simple:
“Do what you always do. Whether it’s home or away, or now at a major tournament on home soil, they’ll be there regardless. They’ll be the best set of fans in the tournament. We’re lucky to have them.”
As EURO 2028 approaches, Chris Gunter’s reflections capture what makes Welsh football special: unity, pride, passion—and a nation ready to be on the biggest stage once again.
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Cardiff to host opening match
The National Stadium of Wales will host the opening match of UEFA EURO 2028
