Paris, April 30 (IANS): French Football Federation (FFF) president Noel Le Graet said that Euro 2016 will be "extraordinary".

"The stadiums are ready. Lyon is a little bit behind but the stadium will be finished on time. This organisation is extraordinary for French football. It is regrettable that the East and West, Strasbourg and Rennes, these two cities, were not considered to be candidates to improve their stadiums," said the 73-year-old, who was elected president in June 2011.

"Bringing 24 nations to our country for a month, with worldwide broadcasts, is very important for France in terms of image. Teams are also followed by their supporters and sponsors. With the tourism, it will bring something economically."

Next year's European Championships is slated for June 10-July 10 in 10 cities of France. It will be the first edition of the continental tournament where participants in the final stage have raised from 16 to 24 nations.