Keir Starmer is expected to announce a one-off bank holiday if England win the 2026 World Cup, according to sources close to the prime minister. The move would give the nation a day off to celebrate the men's team ending 60 years of hurt by bringing the trophy home for the first time since 1966.
The prime minister has dropped his heaviest hint yet that he wants to reward the country with an extra public holiday should Thomas Tuchel's side triumph in the tournament. Speaking ahead of England's quarter-final clash with Norway at the weekend, Starmer indicated that the government is prepared to act swiftly to mark a historic victory.
England's run in the World Cup has captured the public imagination, with millions of fans following the team's progress. A bank holiday would allow supporters to take part in nationwide celebrations, from street parties to community events, without having to take annual leave. The last time England won the men's World Cup was in 1966, when the team defeated West Germany 4-2 after extra time at Wembley Stadium.
The proposal has been discussed within government circles in recent weeks, with officials examining the logistical and economic implications of an additional public holiday. While no final decision has been made, sources indicate that Starmer is keen to act quickly if the team secures the trophy. The prime minister is understood to view the potential bank holiday as a fitting tribute to the players and a way to unite the country in celebration.
Business groups have expressed mixed reactions to the idea. Some retail and hospitality sectors welcome the boost in consumer spending that a bank holiday could bring, while others warn of disruption to productivity and additional costs for employers. The government is expected to consult with industry representatives before making a formal announcement.
England's path to the final remains challenging, with strong opposition from teams such as Norway, Brazil, and France. However, the squad's performances so far have fuelled optimism among fans and pundits alike. Thomas Tuchel, the German head coach appointed in 2024, has instilled a disciplined yet attacking style of play that has drawn praise from former players.
The potential bank holiday would be separate from the existing eight permanent public holidays in England and Wales. It would be the first time a sporting achievement has triggered an additional national day off, although similar one-off holidays have been granted for royal events, such as the Queen's Platinum Jubilee in 2022 and the coronation of King Charles III in 2023.
If England win the World Cup, the final would take place on 19 July 2026 in New York, USA. The bank holiday would likely be scheduled shortly after the team's return to allow for organised celebrations. Downing Street has declined to comment on the exact timing, stating only that the prime minister will make an announcement «at the appropriate moment».
Opposition parties have broadly supported the idea, with the Liberal Democrats calling for the bank holiday to be made permanent if England win. Labour MPs have also voiced enthusiasm, though some have cautioned against raising public expectations before the tournament concludes. The Scottish National Party has not yet taken a formal position, but has noted that public holidays are a devolved matter in Scotland.
For now, the nation waits. The quarter-final against Norway will be a crucial test of England's credentials, and fans will be hoping that Starmer's promise becomes a reality. Whether the bank holiday materialises depends on the players' performances on the pitch, but the prime minister's signal has already added an extra layer of excitement to an already gripping tournament.
