Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has suggested that an England victory in the 2026 World Cup could lead to an additional bank holiday for the nation. Speaking ahead of Saturday's quarter-final against Norway, Starmer praised the team's performance in the previous round.
Starmer's Comments on Potential Bank Holiday
During the NATO summit in Ankara, Starmer was asked about the possibility of a bank holiday if England win the tournament. He responded, "I don't want to jinx it, but ask me again if we get to the final." The Friday following the July 19 final has been identified as the most likely date for a celebratory bank holiday.
Starmer described last Monday's victory over Mexico as "one of the best England performances I've ever seen." He also engaged in friendly banter with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store, joking that England only win World Cups under Labour governments. "But for 90 minutes on Saturday evening, we'll have to go our different ways as we go into that match," Starmer added.
Reaction to Quansah Red Card
The Prime Minister also revealed that he resisted calls to overturn Jarell Quansah's red card against Mexico, despite intervention from Donald Trump on behalf of a US player. Starmer's comments come as England prepare for their crucial quarter-final match against Norway.
