Boris heads new World Cup Bid team

The Mayor of London becomes the chair of London United

The Mayor of London Boris Johnson is to become chair of London United, the group co-ordinating the capital's support for the England 2018 FIFA World Cup bid, it was announced today.

In a meeting at City Hall with England 2018 Chairman Lord Triesman and England 2018 CEO Andy Anson, the Mayor reaffirmed his own personal commitment and the significance of winning the bid, for London and the country.

The Mayor said: "I am delighted that London is included as part of England's bid to host the World Cup in 2018. The capital has the crown jewels of the national bid with our world-class stadia, accommodation and transport connections.

"Londoners are also passionate about football and teams competing in the World Cup can expect enthusiastic support for their own supporters who make their home here.

"But we're not taking anything for granted - we really want to bring the tournament to the capital. We have brought together a crack new team to build on the first stage of the bid and get that first goal in the back of the net."

Lord Triesman, Chairman of England 2018 said: "We are delighted that the Mayor has decided to chair London United. It demonstrates that the bid has political support at the highest level and that London, the world's leading city, is fully committed to bringing the World Cup to England. I am very much looking forward to working closely with the Mayor on England's bid."

In December 2009, England 2018 confirmed that four London stadia would be amongst 16 to be included in the final submission to FIFA in May 2010. The London stadia were Wembley, Arsenal FC Emirates and either the new Tottenham Hostpur FC Stadium or the Olympic Stadium.

England's bid will be submitted to FIFA in May with the winning host country for 2018 announced in December this year. The public are urged to register support for England's bid at: www.england2018bid.com.