Good luck wishes from Staffordshire are being sent to the England squad ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which kicks off today.
The tournament, taking place across Canada, the USA and Mexico, will see 48 countries battle it out to be crowned champions of the world.
With England’s first game taking place on Wednesday 17 June against Croatia, people are invited to get their football shirts, scarfs and flags ready to cheer on the team as they hope to lift the cup sixty years on from their win in 1966.
The tournament is also expected to provide a welcome boost to the county’s pubs, sports bars, restaurants and other hospitality businesses, as people come out to cheer on the team.
Martin Murray, Leader at Staffordshire County Council, said:
"The World Cup gives a much need boost to our struggling hospitality and the Nighttime Economy sector. It’s a real opportunity for people, of all ages, to come together and cheer on their teams as well as giving local businesses a boost.
“For the England team and players, much of the tactics will already have been agreed, including some early tournament preparations at St George’s Park in Burton, which we’re incredibly proud to be the home of. It’s wonderful to see our great county playing its role in what could be a fantastic World Cup.
“I hope people can join in the celebrations while cheering on the team and supporting our fantastic pubs and bars as we progress through the competition. I wish the team the best of luck in the tournament. Come on England, do us proud, and help inspire the next generation of footballers.”
St George’s Park and the National Football Centre is located outside Burton in Staffordshire, hosting 14 outdoor pitches and state-of-the-art performance and recovery facilities. Built in 2012, the centre also includes England Football Learning, which delivers elite coaching and medical courses.
