The Prime Minister has confirmed he will be watching England's opening World Cup match against Croatia, but questions remain over whether a bank holiday would be declared if the Three Lions triumph.
England's World Cup Campaign Begins
England face Croatia in their opening game of the FIFA World Cup 2026 tonight. Thousands of fans will be tuning in when the game kicks off at 9pm (UK time) live from the Dallas Stadium in Texas. The Three Lions will be hoping to get some points on the board before they meet Ghana in Boston on June 23 and Panama in New Jersey on June 27.
This year, the World Cup is taking place across three nations: the USA, Canada and Mexico. This means certain games can run late into the night due to the time difference. There's set to be more than a few tired supporters heading into work the following days, with many wondering if the Prime Minister will announce a bank holiday if England make it to the final.
Historical Precedent
When England won their one and only World Cup in 1966, there was no extra bank holiday, reports Manchester Evening News. The nation returned to work as usual the following Monday after the Labour Party in government - led by Prime Minister Harold Wilson - decided against granting an extra day off to celebrate the historic 4-2 victory against West Germany.
Prime Minister's Comments
During an appearance on ITV's This Morning earlier this week, the Prime Minister was asked by presenter Ben Shephard if he would consider giving the country a day off on Monday, 20 July, if England are victorious on July 19. Sir Keir told Ben and co-host Cat Deeley: "We don't want to jinx the outcome." He added: "I shall be glued to it (the World Cup). I'm going to the G7 leaders meeting immediately after this, but we'll get back just in time for kick-off on Wednesday you'll be pleased to know."
Education Secretary's View
ITV News recently spoke to Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson to ask about plans for schools if England are victorious, who dismissed the idea of a day off school. She said: "We've got a big push on school attendance. I'm not getting involved in parents and bedtime, parents can manage that. But I understand children will want to stay up with their families and get behind the lads over in the U.S, but come in to school the next day."
England vs Croatia kicks off tonight at 9pm. The match will be broadcast on BBC and ITV.
