The FAW stated in a statement that the idea of bringing UEFA Euro 2020 to 13 different nations was designed to provide smaller countries, like as Wales, with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be involved in organising a major event. The statement added that no decision has been made on which cities will host the matches. The decision was made after talks between the FAW and various football associations around Europe about who could help organise the tournament. Wales had been hoping to have both tournaments run simultaneously but this was not possible due to scheduling conflicts with other European countries. It is hoped that the decision will help raise money for Welsh sports facilities. The FAW stated that the income generated from hosting Euro 2020 will go towards improving football facilities in Wales. The decision was met with criticism by some Welsh politicians who felt it was unfair on countries like Wales who had applied to stage the tournament. Shadow Sports Minister Catrin Gwyndor Jones said: "Given how many countries were interested in hosting, it's very disappointing that only 13 will be chosen. This underlines why we need a competitive bidding process for major events - it gives countries like Wales the chance to show what they can do."