Prince William leads England bid

Prince William has headed the final push for his native England to host the 2018 World Cup at their bid presentation in Zurich on Thursday.

William told the FIFA delegates of how football can change lives, especially that of Eddie Afekafe, who helps English powerhouse Manchester City with their community programs.

“What Eddie represents is a credit to FIFA because it’s your game that transformed his life,” William said.

“England 2018 and FIFA together have the opportunity to create thousands of more opportunities for people like Eddie.”

“It’s a supremely powerful force for binding people together. I love football, we English love football – that’s why it would be such an honour for us to host the 2018 World Cup.”

The groom-to-be, William joked that the world would have a preview of how England copes with large events when he marries Kate Middleton next year in their royal ceremony.

“We can deliver extraordinary public occasions – I certainly hope as I’m planning quite a big one myself next year,” he said.

England international and Major League Soccer star David Beckham spoke of how football has always been a part of his life and his family.

“My life in football began with my grandad Joe. I’ve played on every continent and I’m proud to have been part of the success that English football has enjoyed over the past 20 years,” the former Manchester United hero said.

“I could never have imagined that FIFA would have invited me to take part in the World Cup draw. A year ago today my grandad died, the day before the draw. Now I want to do something that will make my grandad proud.”

“Now I want to do more. That’s why I am here and why everyone from the Prime Minister to Prince William to Eddie is here today. The benefits will be felt over generations and your vote can make this happen.”

England Prime Minister David Cameron said his country’s multiculturalism would be their finest asset in winning the rights to host the most watched event in television history.

“We can provide a home crowd for every team, and every fan in every one of our cities will feel at home,” Cameron said.