2018 World Cup decision Thursday 2 December: Share the moment at the big screen
30 November 2010
City centre shoppers, workers and other Manchester residents are being invited to share in the excitement of the 2018 World Cup decision day this Thursday, 2 December.
FIFA delegates are meeting in Zurich on Thursday 2 December to decide which country will win the right to host the 2018 football World Cup and the announcement - expected just after 3pm - will be shown live on the big screen in Hardman Square, Spinningfields.
Manchester is an integral part of the England 2018 campaign and as the only city outside London with more than one stadium in the bid is sure to be the focus of considerable media attention.
The big screen will be showing recordings of the competing nations' final presentations to FIFA before crossing live to the media centre in Zurich. There will also be a football skills event featuring local schools during the build-up to the announcement.
Councillor Mike Amesbury, Executive Member for Culture and Leisure, said: "Manchester is a city with football in its blood but if England is named the host country for the 2018 World Cup it won't just be lovers of the game who benefit.
"It will mean a enormous boost to Manchester's economy as well as a festival of football, fans and friendship will once again see the city take its place on the world stage.
"We'd like to thank the thousands of Manchester residents who have pledged their support for the bid. The announcement is sure to be a tense occasion and we'd like to invite everyone who wants to share the moment and, hopefully, the celebrations to come and join us in Spinningfields."
