England 2018 names new chairman after World Cup bribe claim
The Football Association has appointed Geoff Thompson as the chairman of the team leading England’s bid to host the World Cup in 2018 after allegations that former chair Lord Triesman accused rival bidding nations of bribery.
The sport’s governing body moved to appoint the former FA chair after Lord Triesman resigned from his post at England 2018 yesterday (16 May) following a Sunday newspaper sting that alledged he accused Spain and Russia of planning to bribe referees.
He has also stood down from his post as chairman of the FA.
The allegations could damage England’s chances of hosting the 2018 World Cup. FIFA delegates will meet at the end of the year to decide which nation has won the right to stage the tournament.
England 2018 has signed sponsorship deals with brands including BT, Morrisons and Npower as well as launching a campaign to gain the public’s backing to prove to FIFA that the bid has the support of the business and football community.
Lord Triesman’s departure from the FA comes two months after chief executive Ian Watmore resigned.
The resignations come at a crucial time for the FA. It is still trying to secure a team sponsor for the England national side and title sponsor of the FA Cup. It has also received criticism over the state of the Wembley Stadium pitch.
Thompson is a former FA chairman and vice president on both the FIFA and UEFA executive committees.
