England bid for 2018 World Cup

The Football Association can confirm that England will bid to host the 2018 World Cup.

This followed a meeting of The FA Board at Soho Square earlier today.

FA Chairman Geoff Thompson said: “I’m delighted to announce our intention to bid to host the World Cup in 2018.

“This follows FIFA’s announcement on Monday that the previous rotation policy will be discontinued, and the positive comments made by FIFA President Sepp Blatter.

“The tremendous support from Prime Minister Gordon Brown and his government has also been a key consideration in today’s decision.

“I’m delighted The FA Board have been so positive in their support for a bid. It would be tremendous for English football and the whole country if we are successful.”

FA Chief Executive Brian Barwick said: “This is a great moment for all of us who love the game in this country. The excitement and expectation from the public to a prospective bid has been incredible.

“It is very clear that the English football public wants to see the World Cup back in this country. We now have to begin the hard work of putting together our plans for a successful bid, with the key issues being:

Maximising support for England internationally

Financing the bid and financial planning for the tournament

Forming a bid team and who will lead it

Identifying the stadiums and training facilities to be used

Working with all stakeholders to ensure we have infrastructure in place to support the tournament – transport, hotels, communications etc.

Plans for supporters – domestic and international

The tournament’s legacy – for football and the whole country

Ensuring the tournament is inclusive to everyone

Making England the number one bid and to host the best World Cup ever.

“We believe we have a very strong case for making a successful bid and hosting a wonderful tournament. The work now begins to bring the World Cup back to England.”

Article courtesy of www.thefa.com