UK Explores World Cup Bid for 2038 or 2042

Prime Minister Andy Burnham is exploring a bid to bring the men's World Cup back to the United Kingdom for the first time since 1966, with the 2038 or 2042 tournaments identified as potential targets. The ambition was discussed during a meeting of regional mayors at No 10 North in Manchester on Friday, August 21, 2026, as part of a broader strategy to use major sporting events to drive investment and regeneration beyond London.

Burnham, who has a season ticket at Everton and has previously called it "insane" that the UK has hosted the World Cup only once, is reportedly in talks with footballing bodies about how a campaign could be delivered. The plan is closely linked to his other major sporting ambition: a Northern Olympics and Paralympic Games in the 2040s. A source familiar with the discussions said the World Cup bid was raised as part of talks on stadium regeneration, with the goal of maximizing returns to stretch well beyond the capital.

However, a significant obstacle exists under FIFA regulations. No European country is eligible to host the World Cup until 2042, as the 2030 tournament will be co-hosted by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, and the 2034 edition is set for Saudi...