The English Football Association have confirmed they will make a bid for the 2018 World Cup Final, they last attempted to stage the finals in 2006 but lost out to European rivals Germany.

England’s competition this time will come from China, Australia, the United States, Mexico as well as Belgium & the Netherlands. FIFA’s executive committee will make a decision on the hosts in October 2011 but bids need to be officially submitted by 2009. The cost of making a bid is expected to be around £15m.

Quotes on England’s 2018 Bid

Geoff Thompson, Chairman of the FA 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.”

Brian Barwick Chief Executive of the FA said to BBC Sport:

“We believe there is huge public support for this. We are conscious this is a very long road we are embarking on but we decided to start the journey today. It will be a real contest and we will absolutely respect the opposition.

There will be no complacency or arrogance. We have got our job to do which is to sell this country, its football and football message to Fifa and the rest of the world and that’s what we will do.”

Gerry Sutcliffe, British Sports Minister said:

“It’s bound to be a tough contest but just like the Olympic bid for 2012, I’m sure we can win, England is the home of football, has the best stadiums and our people have a long-standing love affair with the game. I think an England 2018 would be the best World Cup ever staged.

The Football Associations blueprint for their bid identified the following key issues:

• maximising support for England internationally
• financing the bid & financial planning for the tournament
• forming a bid team & who will lead it
• ensuring the tournament is inclusive to everyone
• making England the number one bid & to host the best World Cup ever
• plans for supporters – domestic and international
• the tournament’s legacy – for football & the whole country
• identifying the stadiums & training facilities to be used
• working with all stakeholders to ensure the infrastructure is in place to support the tournament – transport, hotels, communications etc