A letter by Prince William to football programmes across the country, on the England 2018 FIFA bid

Next week, the FIFA Executive Committee decides which country is to host the 2018 FIFA World Cup Finals. I am asking you, the Nation’s millions of football fans, to back the Bid, as you have done brilliantly so far. The Football Association have put together a superb campaign, and I am honoured to have played a small part in it. Next week in Zurich will be its culmination and, personally, I am confident that our Bid will make you proud.

Football is in the lifeblood of this Nation. From local playing fields up and down the land, right up to Wembley itself, English people live and breathe the Game. It unites us in a way that reaches far beyond club rivalry and allegiance. England’s passion for its National Game is legendary, and would ensure that a FIFA World Cup here would be an unforgettable experience for football fans everywhere.

Our defining ambition is that 2018 must inspire young people the world over to play football and benefit from all that this great sport offers team spirit, health, a focus in life, the values of sportsmanship and fair play and, above all, just the sheer thrill and excitement of playing the game. This would be our legacy. That is why I want so desperately for the FIFA World Cup to come here.

So, I urge every one of you to take pride in our Bid. If we are successful, I know you will join me in welcoming back to our shores the greatest show on earth.

Enjoy the match and just imagine how great it would be to have the finest players on the planet playing here in front of you in 2018.

Prince William

President, The Football Association