Starmer hints at bank holiday if England win World Cup
Short overview
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has hinted at an extra bank holiday if England win the World Cup. The final is on 19 July, and Starmer is expected to step down the next day. A bank holiday would likely be on 24 July.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has strongly suggested that an extra bank holiday would be declared if England win the World Cup. The men's national team, managed by Thomas Tuchel, faces Norway in the quarter-finals on Saturday night. The final is scheduled for Sunday, 19 July.
Political transition and the World Cup
It is widely anticipated that Starmer will step down as prime minister on Monday, 20 July, to be succeeded by Andy Burnham. Should England reach the final, the prime minister is likely to attend the match, which could briefly delay the handover of power.
Bank holiday proposal
When asked about the possibility of an extra day off for people in England if the team wins the World Cup, Starmer said: "On the question of a bank holiday, I think I don't want to jinx it, but ask me again if we get to the final." According to sources, the additional bank holiday would fall on Friday, 24 July, following England's potential triumph.
However, England must first overcome Norway in the quarter-finals, then win the semi-final and final to make the scenario a reality.
More on these topics
Uefa set to drop Fifa boycott threat after assurances
Uefa is expected to lift its threat of boycotting Fifa competitions after receiving assurances that plans to sell World Cup stakes to private investors will not be revived. The decision, to be discussed at Thursday's executive committee meeting, would allow the Under-20 Women's World Cup in Poland to proceed.
Graham Arnold signs six-month extension as Iraq head coach
Graham Arnold has signed a six-month contract extension with the Iraq Football Association, keeping him at the helm for the Gulf Cup and the 2025 AFC Asian Cup. Despite a four-year offer, Arnold chose a shorter term, citing mutual interests.
England Women U20s squad named amid Fifa boycott threat
England Women U20s head coach Lydia Bedford has named her 21-player squad for the Fifa U20s Women's World Cup in Poland, amid threats of a European boycott over the controversial Fifa Forward Enterprise proposal. The tournament runs from 5 to 27 September.
Senegal's Ndiaye: From Bundesliga Debut to World Cup Stage
Bara Sapoko Ndiaye, an 18-year-old midfielder, made his FIFA World Cup debut for Senegal in 2026 after a rapid rise from Bayern Munich's youth setup. His journey highlights a new generation of Senegalese talent poised to lead the national team.
