Press releases

City Council Leader Mike Whitby today spoke of his delight as Birmingham secured a coveted place in England’s 2018 World Cup bid.

After a competitive process, and detailed inspections by the England 2018 team, Birmingham has been confirmed as one of the 12 cities selected for inclusion in the England 2018 Bid Book.

The news moves Birmingham a step closer to a potential £150 million jackpot as England bids to stage the World Cup for the first time since 1966.

Mike Whitby, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “This is terrific news and, as the UK’s City of Sport I think it should be no surprise that Birmingham is included in the FA’s bid to host the World Cup in 2018. We have so many qualities and will undoubtedly enhance the England 2018 bid.

“As a host city we have everything – transport infrastructure, excellent facilities, a reputation for successfully hosting some of the world’s biggest events and, of course a passion for sport.

“In Villa Park we have one of the finest stadiums in the country and as a multi-cultural city we can guarantee a warm welcome, and a home crowd, for any teams based in Birmingham.

“We already have a world-class track record of staging international sports events, and were successfully involved when Euro 96 was hosted by England. By 2018 we will also have the added experience of hosting some of the world’s biggest Olympic teams as they train for London 2012.
        
 “The economic impact would be formidable, the reputation building opportunities are immense, and such a high profile event can only inspire young people from across the city, leaving a lasting legacy.”

Birmingham’s cause was championed by the City Council, Marketing Birmingham, Aston Villa, Birmingham City FC and West Bromwich Albion, as well as a host of West Midlands celebrities and sporting heroes.

Now, in addition to staging games at Villa Park and hosting training camps, the city can bid for the following World Cup events:

•        Preliminary Draw
•        Confederations Cup Draw
•        Final Draw
•        Team Workshop
•        Referees Workshop
•        Medical Workshop
•        Broadcast Workshops
•        FIFA Congress
•        FIFA Banquet