Government Update on Extra Bank Holiday for England
An extra bank holiday for England has moved a step closer after a government update on an early day motion (EDM) calling for a day off should England win the 2026 World Cup. The EDM, lodged by Labour Party MPs, Liberal Democrats, and others, proposes that Monday 20 July 2026 be designated as an additional bank holiday if England wins the final on Sunday 19 July 2026.
Details of the Early Day Motion
The EDM states: “That this House notes that the final of the 2026 World Cup will be played on Sunday 19 July 2026; recognises that a World Cup victory by England would be a rare national moment likely to bring together families, neighbours and communities across the country, including through local celebrations in town centres, community venues and grassroots sports clubs; believes that enabling people to celebrate together would strengthen community spirit and provide an opportunity for shared civic pride; and calls on the Government, in the event of England winning the World Cup on 19 July 2026, to designate Monday 20 July 2026 as an additional bank holiday.”
Political Reactions
Sir Keir Starmer commented: “I’m not gonna jinx the World Cup. But, you know, the last time we won the World Cup it was a Labour government. And so it’s absolutely clear that we only win World Cups under a Labour government. So let’s hope that this is the next opportunity.”
England's Challenges Ahead
England’s next challenge will be to deal with the altitude at the Azteca, which is approximately 2,200 metres above sea level. Manager Thomas Tuchel noted: “It is maybe one of the most beautiful fixtures, most exciting fixtures you can have. And there will be a lot of obstacles waiting for us. The altitude will be a big disadvantage because we cannot physically adapt to it. In four days, it’s just impossible. More obstacles may come, but we are ready for that. We need it. Maybe we have the ideal platform now to genuinely believe that we are ready for that. But I am very happy. Let’s see how much this cost us. We didn’t play overtime, which is a good thing. We have an early trip home. We have a brilliant facility. The most important thing is that we recover because we will travel early to get the travelling out of the way. The players are used to that rhythm. They love this rhythm.”
