Andy Burnham Pushes for UK Bid to Host 2042 Men's World Cup

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has expressed his ambition to bring the men's FIFA World Cup back to the British Isles in 2042. This potential bid would mark the tournament's return to the region for the first time since England hosted and won it in 1966.

Burnham, a vocal football fan, has previously stated his belief that it is "insane" that only one World Cup has ever been held in the UK. He discussed the possibility of hosting the tournament with regional mayors at a meeting in Manchester, where the Prime Minister was also present. The aspiration is for a joint bid that could potentially include England, Scotland, Wales, and the Republic of Ireland, mirroring the collaborative approach seen in the successful joint bid for the Euro 2028 championships.

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We support the FA’s priorities in terms of the tournaments they are already hosting, and any others they’d like to bid for.

Downing Street has indicated support for such ambitions, with a source stating, "It would always be great to host more tournaments." The Prime Minister, described as a sports fan who loves football, is reportedly open to these "broad aspirations."

However, the path to hosting is complex. FIFA regulations stipulate that no European country can stage the World Cup until 2042, as the 2030 tournament is set for Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, with some matches in South America, and the 2034 tournament awarded to Saudi Arabia. Additionally, FIFA rules prevent nations from bidding if the tournament has been held on the same continent within the previous two cycles. The 2030 and 2034 tournaments will be in Europe/Africa and Asia, respectively, leaving North America or Oceania as likely hosts for 2038, and Europe eligible again for 2042.

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It would always be great to host more tournaments. These are broad aspirations – it’s a general ambition.