(England hasn't hosted the World Cup since lifting the Jules Rimet Trophy in 1966)

England could host the World Cup after a seven-decade wait, following encouragement from a senior FIFA figure to submit a bid for the tournament.

The nation has not bid for the event since the controversial 2010 vote for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, hosted by Russia and Qatar respectively, amid allegations of bribery among FIFA members.

England has not hosted a World Cup since the iconic 1966 tournament, where Sir Alf Ramsey's team triumphantly won on home soil.

FIFA vice-president Victor Montagliani believes it is time for the tournament to return to the UK.

In an interview with The Times, he stated: "I can’t see why, not just England but the United Kingdom, shouldn’t host the World Cup. I think it would be a fantastic event, and they should seriously consider bidding for it. We all know the significance of the game in the UK, and I think it’s time."

The 2026 World Cup will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, while the 2030 tournament is set to be shared across Spain, Portugal, Morocco, and South America.

Saudi Arabia will host the 2034 tournament, as it faced no competition for the rights.

The Women's World Cup is scheduled for the UK in 2035, which could pave the way for the men's tournament to return in 2038 or 2042.