Ireland and Scotland have formally applied to European Football's ruling body, UEFA, to put forward a joint bid to host the Euro 2008 football tournament.
Leading football representatives from both countries signed a formal letter of application confirming the decision at Hampden Park in Glasgow, saying they stood a "great chance" of success.
Both countries denied there had been anything farcical about the deal despite the fact the bid was saved from total collapse after last-minute talks in Dublin last night to resolve a row over the building of a new stadium in Ireland.
Football Association of Ireland's president Mr Milo Corcoran and treasurer Mr John Delaney joined their Scottish counterparts at Hampden where they told how both the Government and Irish fans backed the move.
A split in the Government had threatened to scupper the whole process with a crucial deadline today of whether to go ahead with the bid at all.
The Tánaiste Ms Mary Harney, had clashed with the Taoiseach Mr Bertie Ahern's plans for a new stadium at Abbotstown. However, the GAA said last nightit would consider the use of its 80,000-seater Croke Park for some games.
Speaking at the press conference Mr Delaney said: "We've now got absolute assurance we'll have two stadiums in Ireland by the end of May. As yet, we don't know which but rest assured we'll have them. Of that, there is no doubt."
He defended the Government's last-minute response to the bid deadline, saying it was not unusual for the Taoiseach to "stay up debating until the 11th hour."
Scottish Football Association chief executive Mr David Taylor said Scots had no reason to doubt Ireland's promise and told how both countries had been honest and open about details of the bid during discussions.
The deal will see Scotland provide six stadiums, host the open match, three groups, three quarter finals, a semi final and the final.
Ireland will play hosts to one group, one quarter final and a semi final.
The letter to UEFA reveals how both countries believe their joint bid would be a "showcase for European football" as well as being commercially successful.
"We have obtained written commitments from our respective governments that they are fully supportive of the bid and will underwrite the finance to deliver any additional stadium infrastructure that will be required," it stated.
"Our people, with their reputation for making football a festive occasion, are excited at the prospects of creating a great atmosphere for the tournament."
PA