Portuguese government backs joint World Cup bid with Spain

Portuguese government backs joint World Cup bid with Spain

The federations concerned have recently stated their availability for a joint bid, adding to interest from Belgium/Netherlands, Japan, China, Qatar, Mexico, USA, Russia and Australia to organise the four-yearly event.

Portugal’s sports minister Laurentino Dias said the government “is available to receive plans for a bid,” in a letter to FPF president Gilberto Madail revealed by Lusa press agency.

Referring to the stadiums built or renovated on the run-up to Euro 2004, Dias added: “Concerning a joint bid from Spain and Portugal for the 2018 World Cup, it is undeniable that Portugal already has a full, sporting infrastructure.”

The executive committee of football’s world governing body FIFA has announced a simultaneous bidding process for the 2018 and 2022 events, with the hosts for both events revealed in December next year.