PM hails a golden era after England get World Cup nod
PRIME Minister Gordon Brown yesterday hailed the prospect of Britain’s “decade of sport” after England was named hosts of the 2015 Rugby World Cup.
The boost – worth an estimated £2.1bn to the economy, according to Deloitte – came on the same day Britain was awarded the 2013 Rugby League World Cup.
London already has the 2012 Olympic Games, while Glasgow will host the 2014 Commonwealth Games. And with England among the favourites to land football’s World Cup in 2018, the Prime Minister toasted a bright future.
“I’m sure the whole country will want to play their part in making this the most memorable of Rugby World Cups. I’d also like to say how pleased I am that the 2013 Rugby League World Cup will be held in the UK,” said Brown.
“The Rugby World Cup is yet another tremendous event to add to the country’s decade of sport and another chance to show our nation’s passion for sport and what world-class facilities we have to offer. I’m sure it will be a tournament to remember.”
England saw off competition from South Africa and Italy to host the event for the first time since 1991, when Will Carling captained the team to the final.
Ten cities are set to stage matches, with London boasting three venues in Twickenham, where the final will be played, Wembley and Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium.
Old Trafford and Anfield will also stage games, while Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium is the only ground outside of England.
The new Olympic Stadium in Stratford is not part of the plan, but London Mayor Boris Johnson said he was keen it be considered.
The International Rugby Board, who voted in Dublin yesterday, also confirmed Japan would stage the 2019 event.