England launches World Cup bid

London, England (Sports Network) - Football Association chairman Lord Triesman believes the nation has the infrastructure and passion required to host a World Cup after England officially launched its bid to host the 2018 or 2022 tournament.

Speaking at a glittering launch party at Wembley on Monday attended by an array of famous footballing faces, Triesman spoke of the 'festival of football' that a World Cup in England would provide.

Prime minister Gordon Brown lent his support to the 'exciting opportunity' while David Beckham will front the bid.

"We in England would be truly honored to host the World Cup and welcome the world," said Triesman.

"We have first-class grounds. We've got good transport links, domestically and internationally. We've got excellent accommodations.

"England would be truly honored to host the tournament."

FIFA will decide who hosts the 2018 and 2022 tournaments in December 2010.

England's main rivals in Europe are expected to be Spain and Russia, while the USA and Australia have both confirmed that they will also table bids.

However, Triesman is confident that England fulfills all the necessary criteria to stage a successful tournament.

"A World Cup in England would be a truly memorable event - not only for our nation but for every nation," he added.

"We'd extend a wonderful welcome to players and fans from across the world.

"Inside and outside our grounds, we'd share with them our love of the game and our sense of fair play.

"And they would enjoy our diverse culture - one that means England would provide a home-from-home welcome for every fan and player."

(Courtesy of sportbox.tv)

05/18 12:54:30 ET