Britain is set to enter the race to host the 2038 or 2042 World Cup finals, a move that could rewrite the history of football in its birthplace. It is seen as a golden opportunity to bring the biggest tournament in the world back to British soil for the first time since 1966.
Andy Burnham is driving this British political ambition, according to Britain's "The Sun". He sees hosting the World Cup not merely as a sporting event, but as an integrated national project capable of triggering an unprecedented boom in tourism, investment and infrastructure across the whole country.
Six full decades have passed since that immortal afternoon at the old Wembley Stadium. England's captain, under Sir Alf Ramsey, lifted the World Cup after a thrilling 4-2 win over West Germany in extra time. Since that sole coronation in English history, no men's World Cup has been staged on British soil.
A clear strategic vision underpins the anticipated British bid, with the aim that the benefits should not be concentrated in London alone. The plan spreads the matches across several British cities and regions, guaranteeing the flow of millions of visitors and delivering a qualitative leap for local economies and the hospitality, transport and accommodation sectors.
The United Kingdom possesses every ingredient that makes its file among the strongest in the world. The sporting infrastructure is ready. A network of world-class stadiums, an advanced transport system and unrivalled tourist appeal all count in its favour.
Britain has proven its organisational ability, having hosted matches at Wembley during Euro 1996 and the Euro 2020 final. It is also preparing to host Euro 2028 in partnership with the Republic of Ireland, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Timing works in Britain's favour, too. England reached the semi-finals of the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico, ranking among the most prominent contenders for the title before their exit.
On the level of international competition, the opportunity appears favourable for Europe. Spain, Morocco and Portugal will host the 2030 World Cup, with centenary celebration matches in Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay. The 2034 hosting has already been decided, which makes the 2038 and 2042 editions the next two windows available to European football under FIFA's continental rotation policy.
You can discuss the topics and news in greater depth in the "Kooora" forumsFierce competition from other footballing powers awaits, but the return of the World Cup to England carries special symbolism and appeal for fans of the game around the world.
This would be more than just a tournament. It is a chance for a new generation who never lived through the glory of 1966 to experience the magic of the World Cup on their own soil, and for Britain to turn its passion for football into a comprehensive development project.
The road ahead demands close cooperation between the kingdom's four governments and the football associations, along with meticulous planning of the security, transport and stadium files. Yet the dream has begun to take shape. Britain may soon find itself on the threshold of a historic attempt to reclaim the biggest sporting event on the face of the earth.