Theresa May has backed moves to bring the Centennial World Cup to the UK and Ireland in 2030.
The Prime Minister signalled she would offer government support if the Football Association decided to move forward with an official bid.
The Football Associations of England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Irish Republic are undertaking a feasibility study and considering putting forward a joint proposal.
Mrs May, speaking on the eve of the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham, said: “The decision on whether to bid is for the football associations to make.
“But if they decide to go forward, they can count on this government’s full support.”
Opposition
Any England bid would face opposition from the joint campaign of Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay which could be buoyed by the fact 2030 marks 100 years since the first World Cup, held in Uruguay in 1930.
Read more: Worrying whiff of disinterest around England so soon after incredible World Cup
Another bid is anticipated from Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia.
Morocco lost out to the US for the 2026 tournament.
‘A brilliant time’
The former England and Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand welcomed the Government’s backing, saying:
“It’s a brilliant time to be a fan of the Home Nations teams.
“I made my Premier League debut in 1996, the last time there was a major football tournament on these shores, and the excitement across the country was something else.
“So I really welcome the support the Government is offering.”
London and Glasgow will host 11 games in the Uefa European Championships in 2020 with Wembley hosting the semi-finals and the final.
Taking the lead
Labour also welcomed the announcement, with the shadow Digital, Culture, Media and Sport secretary Tom Watson pointing out it had also backed the plan in July.
The deputy party leader added: “I’m delighted the Prime Minister has followed Labour’s lead and is willing to back a bid.
“This summer’s World Cup and the performance of England inspired the nation.
“In 2030, it’s time for football to come home.”
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The news comes as the Education Secretary Damian Hinds and sports minister Tracey Crouch announce they will lead a new cross-government action plan to improve competitive school sports.
They will convene key organisations in the sports world – including the Premier League, the FA and the Rugby Football Union – to agree a new plan on how to get more children playing competitive sport.
Read more on the World Cup
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