FA welcome government backing over 2018 World Cup bid

LONDON, Feb 12 (Reuters) A government study suggesting England are in a good position to bid for the 2018 World Cup finals was welcomed by the Football Association today.

The study, which came as British chancellor Gordon Brown reiterated his support for a bid, said England was well-placed in terms of stadiums and general public support -- should the FA decide to press ahead.

The FA is waiting until FIFA, the game's ruling body, indicates which continent will be chosen for 2018 under its rotation policy.

South Africa will host 2010 and the 2014 tournament will be held in South America.

FA chief executive Brian Barwick said in a statement: ''FIFA have not yet announced which continent will be awarded the 2018 World Cup, but if it does come to Europe the FA will give very serious consideration to a bid.

''We have the stadiums, the infrastructure, a multi-cultural society and a passion for the game that few countries can match.

''In addition, every major European football nation has hosted the World Cup since 1966.'' As for politicians, Barwick said: ''Government backing is a central part of any successful World Cup bid and this study underlines this government's commitment to bringing the world's biggest sports events to these shores.

''It is also hugely encouraging that there is such a groundswell of public support for a World Cup in England.

''As we saw last year in Germany, when the host country gets behind the competition, it gives it an extra buzz, and the colour and atmosphere of an English World Cup would be something really special.'' Brown, who is expected to become prime minister later this year when Tony Blair steps down, told The Times about his hopes of following the 2012 London Olympics with soccer's showpiece.

''I just see this as one of the great sporting decades in this country's history,'' he was quoted saying on Monday.

''We can become the sporting nation of the world. It reinforces the image of England around the world, but also the sense that we are taking ourselves seriously as a sporting nation.

''I think other countries will see England as the obvious place.'' England hosted the finals in 1966, winning their first and only tournament trophy.

Reuters SAM GC1756