A potential bonus bank holiday to celebrate an England World Cup victory will not take place on a Monday, as previously speculated, but has been delayed to Friday, July 24. The decision comes as Sir Keir Starmer, the outgoing Prime Minister, confirmed his support for the extra day off, but logistical issues forced a change in date.
Starmer to Attend Final as Resignation Looms
Sir Keir Starmer will attend the World Cup final on Sunday, July 19, if England defeat Argentina and then Spain to win the tournament for the first time since 1966. His resignation is set to be confirmed to King Charles the following day, Monday, July 20. Andy Burnham is expected to take over as Prime Minister on that Monday.
Bank Holiday Moved to Friday
While Starmer backed the idea of a bank holiday, it will not occur on the traditional Monday. Instead, the holiday is scheduled for Friday, July 24, giving the England squad sufficient time to return from the United States, where the final is being held in New Jersey. Upon their return, an open-top bus parade is likely, and millions will enjoy an extra day off.
Political Reactions
Speaking to reporters at the Nato summit last week, Starmer said: “I don’t want to jinx it, but ask me again if we get to the final.” Andy Burnham, the incoming Prime Minister, was cautious earlier this month when asked about the bank holiday. He told LBC: “I’m an Evertonian, I do not ever back anything when it comes to football, I don’t do it with England either. I think they’ve got a bit of improvement to do before we can start seriously dreaming of it coming home.”
Starmer's World Cup Record
During his final Prime Minister's Questions on Wednesday, Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch remarked that Starmer would not emulate Harold Wilson by winning many elections but might copy him by being Prime Minister when England wins the World Cup. Starmer responded by urging all MPs, including the SNP, to get behind the team. Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice noted that 76% of England matches have been won while Starmer has been PM, the best record for any Prime Minister. Starmer added that England have won 22 out of 29 matches during his tenure and need to make that 24 out of 31.
