Portsmouth plan to build a new stadium for the 2018 World Cup

Portsmouth City Council have announced it will bid to become a host city at the Fifa World Cup in 2018.

'Portsmouth. People. Passion. Pride.' is the council's vision to become part of England's campaign to host the showpiece tournament.

Portsmouth executive chairman Peter Storrie told BBC Radio Solent: "Portsmouth FC is proud to support the city's bid to become a host venue.

"Fans from all over the world can get a unique welcome from Portsmouth FC."

Storrie was among a number of high profile guests that attended a briefing at the Guildhall in Portsmouth. The council's chief executive, David Williams, and the leader of the council, Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson were also in attendance.

David Williams, council chief executive said: "The football World Cup is the biggest sporting event in the world and represents a huge, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Portsmouth.

"Portsmouth's bid for host city status is proof of the city's aspirations to establish itself as a truly international city."

Councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson, leader of the council, said: "Portsmouth lives and breathes football and the city's name is known all over the world for the passion of its fans."

"The city also boasts a unique waterfront, a proud naval heritage and world class attractions like the Spinnaker Tower and Historic Dockyard."

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

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