Theresa May backs calls for UK and Ireland to host 2030 football World Cup

The chances of football coming home have received a major boost after Theresa May backed calls for the UK and Ireland to bid to host the 2030 World Cup.

The prime minister said the government would give its “full support” to UK and Irish football authorities if they decide to push ahead with plans to bid for the tournament.

The football associations of England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and Ireland are collectively considering whether to enter a formal application and are carrying out preparatory work on how a jointly-hosted tournament might work.

The decision will be made by the football organisation but Ms May promised they would receiving UK government backing if they decide to go ahead.

Speaking on the eve of the Conservatives’ annual conference in Birmingham, she said: “Following the excitement of this summer’s World Cup, the English FA are working together with the FA’s of Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and Ireland to explore whether there could be a joint bid to host the 2030 World Cup.

“The decision on whether to bid is, of course, for the football associations to make. But if they decide to go forward, they can count on this government’s full support.”

England entered a bid to hold the 2018 World Cup but lost out to Russia when the hosts were appointed in 2010.

If successful, the latest bid could result in two major international football tournaments taking place in the UK in the space of 10 years. The 2020 European Championships will be spread across Europe, but nine fixtures will be held in the UK. London and Glasgow will host games, including the final and one of the semi-finals to be held at Wembley.

In recent years the UK has also hosted the Olympic and Paralympic Games, the Rugby World Cup, the Rugby League World Cup, the Commonwealth Games, the World Athletic Championships and the start of the the Tour de France.

Former England international Rio Ferdinand welcomed Ms May’s support for a potential World Cup bid, saying: “It’s a brilliant time to be a fan of the Home Nations teams. Michael O’Neill and Northern Ireland continue to surpass all expectations. Alex McLeish is building an exciting young Scottish side. Wales are going from strength-to-strength under my old mate Giggsy.

“And who can forget Gareth Southgate and England’s unbelievable performance this summer in Russia.

“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.”

Labour also backed the move. Tom Watson, the party’s deputy leader and shadow culture secretary, said: “Back in July I announced that a future Labour government would lend its full backing to a bid for the World Cup in 2030.

“I’m delighted that 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.”

Ms May’s backing came as Damian Hinds, the education secretary, and Tracey Crouch, the sports minister, announced a new initiative to boost competitive sport in schools.

The government will work alongside top sports organisations including the Premier League and the FA in a bid to get more children playing sport.

It follows warnings that competitive sport among younger children has declined in recent years.

Mr Hinds said: “Whilst we have done a lot to support schools to deliver sport – including the introduction and then doubling of the PE and Sports Premium – we need to go further to make sure that every child, whatever their background, has the opportunity to explore different kinds of sport and take part in competition in the one – or the many – that they enjoy.

“Competitive sport also plays an important part in growing up. Learning to win humbly and pick yourself up again after a loss are useful life lessons. By coming together and striving for a goal, children learn key skills like teamwork and resilience.

“These are character traits that will serve them well in later life, with businesses often talking to me about the ‘soft skills’ they look for in employees.”