Government make decision on Bank Holiday if England’s Lionesses win World Cup
England supporters will not be toasting a potential Lionesses' World Cup win with an extra Bank Holiday following the Government's latest decision.
Sarina Wiegman's side are now just potentially just 90 minutes away from their first ever World Cup crown following Wednesday's 3-1 victory over co-hosts Australia in Sydney. Ella Toone looked to have put the Lionesses on track for their final appearance, only to see Chelsea's Sam Kerr equalise in stunning style.
Lauren Hemp put England ahead once again midway through the second half before playing a key role in Alessio Russo's strike to secure her side's progression. The Lionesses return to Sydney on Sunday for the all-important showdown with Spain.
There have been some calls from some quarters for an extra Bank Holiday should the Lionesses run out victorious, something that has been backed by Wiegman. Speaking ahead of the semi-final victory over Spain, she said: "I would say yes, I can see all the English people here want it! But let's do everything to win the game tomorrow."
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Prime Minister Rishi Sunak had a message for the side immediately after the success against Australia. Taking to Twitter, he wrote: "What a performance @Lionesses. Just one more game to go... Bring on Sunday."
However, the Government have rained on supporters' parade by announcing that an extra Bank Holiday will not be added to the current calendar. A spokesperson said: "We congratulate the Lionesses on their fantastic achievement in getting to the Women's World Cup final. The current pattern of public and bank holidays is well established and there are no plans to change this."
Sarina Wiegman has backed calls for an extra Bank Holiday should the Lionesses win the World Cup (Getty Images)Should there be another Bank Holiday if the Lionesses win the World Cup? Share your thoughts in the comments below
That call has not gone down particularly well with Labour leader Keir Starmer, who has thrown his backing behind calls for an extra day off. He tweeted: "It’s almost 60 years since England won the World Cup. I’m never complacent about anything… but there should be a celebratory bank holiday if the Lionesses bring it home."
There has never been an extra Bank Holiday for a sporting event, not even for England's only ever World Cup win to date against Germany at Wembley back in 1966. A House of Commons library report suggested that an extra holiday would cost £2.9bn.
A message from Buckingham Palace following the Lionesses' win in Sydney read: "My wife and I join all our family in sending the mighty Lionesses our warmest congratulations on reaching the final of the World Cup, and in sharing our very best wishes for Sunday’s match.
"While your victory may have cost the magnificent Matildas their chance for the greatest prize in the game, both teams have been an inspiration on and off the pitch – and, for that, both nations are united in pride, admiration and respect."
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