A study done by the Limoges Center for Law & Economy in Sport (CDES) revealed that France can expect to generate more than €1.5B ($1.7B) from hosting Euro 2016, which starts June 10 and runs until July 10, according to François Launay of 20 MINUTES. The study showed that Lille and Lens, two cities in the north of France, “could benefit the most” from hosting Euro 2016 matches. The Pierre Mauroy de Villeneuve d’Ascq Stadium in Lille will host six matches, while the Bollaert-Delelis Stadium in Lens will host four. CDES “estimates the economic impact on Lille” could reach €151M ($169M). The study broke down the €151M three ways: €111M ($124M) “spent by fans in stadiums, fan-zones and shopping;” €12M ($13M) spent by UEFA; €28M ($31M) spent by the government on the stadium and infrastructure. The study noted that although construction created jobs in the area, “most are long gone.” CDES estimates Lens “to bring in around” €71M ($79M) during the tournament. The study expects €51M ($57M) spent by fans, €8M ($9M) by UEFA and €12M ($13M) from the government. It “should be noted that the stadium in Lens was financed entirely by public funding” (20 MINUTES, 3/29).
