Government backing 2030 World Cup bid

A joint bid from England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland to host the 2030 World Cup has received support from the UK Government.

A feasibility study is under way and will continue before the formal bidding process begins next year.

The FA said it welcomed “the Government’s pledge of £2.8million towards a potential bid” for the 2030 World Cup.

A joint statement released by the FA and the football associations of Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland read: “Staging a FIFA World Cup would provide an incredible opportunity to deliver tangible benefits for our nations.”

The 2022 World Cup will take place in Qatar next year, while the 2026 tournament is to be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

England have not hosted the World Cup since their victory in 1966.