Andy Burnham explores bid for UK to host men’s World Cup
Andy Burnham is exploring a bid for the UK to host the men’s World Cup alongside plans for a Northern Olympics, reports BritPanorama.
As part of his strategy to utilise major sporting events to stimulate investment, tourism, and regeneration beyond London, the Prime Minister is discussing this proposal with national footballing bodies, as reported by The i.
The last time the World Cup was held in the UK was in 1966, a tournament where England emerged victorious. Mr Burnham’s initiative aims to bring the prestigious event back in the near future.
On Friday morning, Burnham shared his ambitions with colleagues at No 10 North, stating that the discussions on how to implement a campaign for the tournament are ongoing. The next available World Cup is set for 2038, with following tournaments in 2042 and 2046; however, FIFA has yet to announce the host selection process.
Mr Burnham is also aspiring to move the Olympics north, a move that aligns with regional calls for increased revenue through enhanced sporting infrastructure. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy expressed her support earlier this year, highlighting the importance of showcasing the North’s sports excellence as part of a wider stadium regeneration agenda.
“London 2012 showed what the Olympics can do for our country. It inspired a generation through sport, attracted huge investment and showed the best of Britain to the world,” she stated, further advocating for broader representation in future Olympic events.
Nandy pointed out the disparity between the North’s sporting achievements and its historical exclusion from major events, asserting, “It’s time the Olympics came North and we showed what we can offer to the world.”
The UK is also scheduled to host the women’s World Cup in 2035 and co-host the men’s Euros in 2028 alongside Ireland, reinforcing the UK’s role in international football. Despite these future events, Burnham has expressed frustration regarding the infrequent hosting of the World Cup in England.
“It makes you wonder whether the authorities at the European and global level have something against us,” he remarked in a recent podcast, emphasising that the birthplace of football deserves greater attention.
This World Cup bid holds particular significance for Mr Burnham given his previous experience as culture, media, and sports secretary, during which England’s bid in 2010 fell to Russia. The controversies surrounding both the 2018 and 2022 World Cup host selections have since brought increased scrutiny to FIFA leadership.
Since taking office, Burnham has called for the resignation of FIFA’s Gianni Infantino, raising concerns over his management and proposed plans to leverage the tournament for private investment, which he deemed unacceptable.
As discussions progress, the ambition to bring the beautiful game back to the UK signals a renewed commitment to positioning the North as a key player in national and international sport.
