FIFA's process

THE BID PROCESS

The FIFA World Cup™ is the biggest sport event in the world. The first finals were played in Uruguay in 1930 and interest has grown ever since. Understandably, bidding to stage the World Cup is highly competitive.

In January 2009, FIFA kicked off the 24-month process to select the hosts of the 2018 and the 2022 FIFA World Cups™. England formally expressed its interest in January 2009, with the delivery of a letter of intent to FIFA headquarters in Zurich.

Bid Books must be delivered to FIFA by 14 May 2010, and then FIFA will assess the bids. In December 2010 FIFA’s Executive Committee will select the hosts for the 2018 and the 2022 FIFA World Cups™.

There are nine bidders for the 2018 tournament and 11 for the 2022 tournament.

THE BID BOOK

The Bid Book will contain England’s plans to stage the World Cup Finals including proposals for stadiums, training venues, base camps and Fan Parks.

Approximately 16 stadiums are required with minimum capacities of between 40,000 for group matches and 80,000 for the opening match and final. The Finals are expected to be contested by 32 teams.

The bid must satisfy FIFA’s requirements for accommodation, transport, IT, medical services, broadcasting, and safety and security, and cover items such as ticketing, hospitality and commercial rights. England’s plans must also demonstrate the highest environmental and sustainability standards.