Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has strongly hinted that England could be rewarded with an additional bank holiday if the Three Lions go all the way and lift the FIFA World Cup trophy this month.
Thomas Tuchel’s side face Norway in a crucial quarter-final clash on Saturday evening, with a place in the last four at stake. Victory would move England one step closer to a first World Cup triumph since 1966.
The tournament reaches its climax on Sunday, 19 July, when the final will be played at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, United States.
However, the occasion could carry added political significance. It is widely expected that Sir Keir Starmer will step down as prime minister the following day, paving the way for Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham to take over as the country’s new leader.
If England reach the final, Sir Keir would be expected to travel to New Jersey to support the national team.
Any such trip could briefly delay the planned transition of power, although officials are understood to have contingency plans in place.
Speaking about the possibility of declaring a public holiday should England become world champions, the prime minister stopped short of making a formal commitment but suggested the idea was firmly on the table.
“I don’t want to jinx it,” Sir Keir said when asked about the prospect of an extra bank holiday. “Ask me again if we get to the final.”
His remarks have fuelled speculation that the government is already considering plans for a nationwide celebration if England secure the trophy.
It is understood that, should England be crowned world champions, the additional bank holiday would be scheduled for Friday, 24 July, giving fans across the country an opportunity to celebrate the historic achievement.
An extra public holiday would likely be welcomed by millions of supporters, with England’s progress in the tournament already generating growing excitement and optimism.
For now, though, England’s attention remains firmly fixed on the football. Before any celebrations—or bank holiday announcements—can become reality, Tuchel’s men must first overcome Norway in the quarter-finals, then navigate a challenging semi-final before winning the World Cup final itself.
With three knockout matches standing between England and footballing immortality, the prospect of an extra day off remains an enticing possibility rather than a certainty.
source: BBC