Portsmouth submits world cup bid

Plans to bring the World Cup to Portsmouth in 2018 moved a step forward after a preliminary bid was submitted to England football chiefs.

Details of a base camp for international players and training facilities make up the proposal by the city council hoping to host some games.

A final bid will be submitted in November and host cities will be revealed in December.

England last hosted the event in 1966 beating West Germany 4-2 in the final.

Portsmouth plan to expand the capacity of Fratton Park to 30,000 before building a new stadium with a 40,000-plus capacity.

'Fan support'

Peter Storrie, Portsmouth FC chief executive, said "Everybody knows the passion people in Portsmouth have for football.

"Fans from all over the world could expect a unique welcome from Portsmouth FC."

The council launched its campaign - "Portsmouth. People. Passion. Pride" - to gather support.

Gerald Vernon-Jackson, leader of Portsmouth City Council, said: "It would be fantastic if Portsmouth were to become a host city for the 2018 World Cup.

"There is already a buzz of excitement in the air and we need every football fan to play their part and help bring the World Cup to the south coast in 2018."

The 2010 event will be held in South Africa.