Big boost for England 2018 World Cup bid
Sky Sports are claiming that England received the most favourable review of the four bids to host the 2018 World Cup in a recently compiled FIFA inspection report.
They suggest that England were ranked top ahead of Russia, Portugal and Spain and Belgium and Holland after being judged over 17 categories. By contrast, the BBC believe there was no actual pecking order but they agree with Sky that the bid was declared "low risk".
The BBC have also compiled a list of what FIFA perceive to be the positives and negatives of England as a venue, with transport and security two of the most significant plus points, however there are thought to be concerns over the limited number of venue-specific training camps and team hotels.
The development saw the odds on England being chosen as hosts dive in from [3.05] to [1.98] before eventually drifting back out to [2.42], but Russia have sustained their position as favourites at [1.93] despite reservations being raised about the overhaul that would need to be made to their transport system.
Portugal and Spain are next in line at [5.1] with the Euro 2000 co-hosts Belgium and Holland's attempt the big outsider at [36.0].
Will England be chosen to stage the great tournament? Share your views below...
Published: 17 Nov 2010
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