Starmer Hints at Extra Bank Holiday if England Win the World Cup

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has suggested that England could receive an extra bank holiday if the national team goes on to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Speaking ahead of England’s quarter-final clash with Norway on Saturday, Starmer hinted that the idea of an additional day off could become a reality should the team lift football’s biggest prize.

However, the prime minister was careful not to get ahead of himself, stressing that England still have significant hurdles to overcome before thinking about celebrations.

Prime Minister Avoids ‘Jinxing’ England’s Chances

When asked whether the government would consider granting an extra bank holiday if England became world champions, Starmer replied: “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.”

His comments have already sparked excitement among football fans, many of whom have long called for a national holiday to mark major sporting achievements.

England’s last and only World Cup triumph came in 1966, and the prospect of a second title has captured the imagination of supporters across the country.

Possible Holiday Date Revealed

According to reports, if England were to win the tournament, the proposed extra bank holiday would likely take place on Friday, 24 July.

The World Cup final is scheduled for Sunday, 19 July, meaning a national holiday later that week would give fans an opportunity to celebrate what would be one of the biggest moments in English sporting history.

However, before any celebrations can be planned, England must first navigate a difficult route to the trophy.

The team faces Norway in the quarter-finals and would still need to win both a semi-final and the final to become world champions.

Political Transition Could Coincide With Final

The possibility of England reaching the final also comes at a significant political moment.

It is widely expected that Starmer will step down as prime minister on 20 July, the day after the World Cup final, with Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham expected to succeed him.

Should England reach the final, reports suggest that Starmer would likely attend the match, which could briefly affect the timing of the transition of power.

England’s World Cup Dream Continues

Under manager Thomas Tuchel, England have produced several impressive performances during the tournament and remain among the favourites to lift the trophy.

Supporters are now eagerly awaiting Saturday’s quarter-final against Norway, knowing that victory would move the team one step closer to a historic World Cup triumph and perhaps even an extra day off work.

For now, however, both football fans and government officials are keeping their focus on the next match, with the dream of becoming world champions still very much alive.