England bank holiday plans moved a step closer after Prime Minister Keir Starmer suggested the government could reward the nation if England wins the FIFA World Cup. The England bank holiday proposal has gathered momentum as the Three Lions prepare for the quarter-finals. Although no decision has been made, the England bank holiday idea remains under active consideration.
Speaking during the NATO summit in Ankara, Prime Minister Keir Starmer responded to questions about whether England’s success would bring an extra public holiday. However, the Prime Minister stopped short of making a firm commitment.
“I don’t want to jinx it,” Starmer said. “Ask me again if we get to the final.”
His comments immediately fueled speculation that ministers are preparing plans should England end decades of World Cup disappointment. Government officials are reportedly discussing several options behind the scenes. Nevertheless, they have not confirmed any final arrangements.
According to current discussions, the additional holiday would probably not take place immediately after the World Cup final.
Instead, officials are considering holding it on the following Friday. That date could also coincide with a national victory parade if England wins the tournament. England would likely return from New Jersey on the Monday after the final. Therefore, a Friday holiday would give supporters more time to celebrate any success.
The Prime Minister has consistently shown his passion for football throughout the tournament. Earlier this week, he praised England’s dramatic victory over Mexico in the Round of 16.
Starmer described the performance as one of the finest England displays he had ever witnessed. He praised the team’s determination, resilience and strength across the entire squad.
Meanwhile, England now prepares for a quarter-final meeting with Norway. During the NATO summit, Starmer shared a light-hearted moment with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre as both leaders posed wearing their national football shirts.
Although the two leaders enjoy a close working relationship, Starmer joked that their friendship would pause during the match. He said they were strategically aligned on many issues. However, for 90 minutes they would support opposite teams.
The Prime Minister also addressed questions surrounding defender Jarrell Quansah’s suspension. He joked that many supporters had urged him to intervene after United States President Donald Trump reportedly encouraged FIFA to reconsider a suspension involving an American player.
Starmer laughed off suggestions that he would contact football authorities. He said he had received numerous messages asking him to overturn Quansah’s red card. However, he confirmed he had made no attempt to influence the decision.
The government has already shown flexibility during England’s World Cup campaign. Earlier in the tournament, ministers approved extended pub opening hours until 5am for England’s match against Mexico. The move allowed supporters across the country to watch the overnight fixture together.
In addition, Starmer reportedly opposed proposals to alter the Mexico match kick-off time after concerns emerged about competitive fairness. The idea of celebrating major sporting success with a public holiday has gained support in recent years.
After England’s women’s team won the UEFA European Championship in 2022, many politicians called for an additional bank holiday to mark the achievement. The Scottish Government also approved a special public holiday last month after Scotland returned to the World Cup for the first time in 28 years.
For now, ministers remain focused on England’s progress in the tournament rather than making formal announcements. Nevertheless, Starmer’s latest comments have strengthened hopes among supporters that a World Cup victory could bring not only football history but also an extra day off for millions across the United Kingdom.
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