Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has suggested that England fans could be rewarded with an extra bank holiday should the national team go on to win the World Cup this summer. England’s hopes of securing international football’s biggest prize remain alive as Thomas Tuchel’s side prepare to face Norway in a highly anticipated quarter-final clash on Saturday evening. Victory would move the Three Lions one step closer to a place in the tournament’s showpiece final, which is scheduled to take place in New Jersey on 19 July.

With excitement building across the country, speculation has already begun over how a potential World Cup triumph would be celebrated. One idea gathering momentum is the possibility of an additional bank holiday to mark what would be one of the most significant moments in English sporting history.

Speaking about the prospect, Sir Keir stopped short of making any firm promises but appeared to leave the door open to the possibility.

“On the question of a bank holiday, I think I don't want to jinx it, but ask me again if we get to the final,” he said.

The remark has been widely interpreted as a strong indication that the government could seriously consider introducing an extra day off should England complete their World Cup campaign in style.

Sources close to discussions suggest that, if approved, the additional bank holiday would likely fall on Friday, 24 July, giving supporters across the country the opportunity to celebrate a historic victory.

The timing of the tournament could also coincide with a significant moment in British politics. It is widely expected that Sir Keir will step down as prime minister on the day following the World Cup final, with Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham tipped to succeed him.

Should England reach the final, the prime minister would be expected to attend the match in the United States, potentially resulting in a slight adjustment to the planned timetable for the transfer of power.

For now, however, both politicians and supporters are focused on the task facing Tuchel’s side. England must first overcome Norway in the quarter-finals before navigating a potential semi-final and final if they are to fulfil their dream of becoming world champions.

While talk of celebrations and extra days off has already captured the imagination of fans, there remains a long road ahead. England’s players know that three more victories stand between them and a place in football history.

If they can clear those hurdles, discussions about a national holiday may quickly move from speculation to reality.