FOI - World Cup semi-final [Jul 2026]

1. What advance planning was undertaken for a possible England World Cup semi-final screening in 2026?
2. Which sites were considered, and why was each rejected?
3. When did City Hall approach the FA, DCMS, the Metropolitan Police, Westminster City Council, the Royal Parks and London boroughs about a screening?
4. How much funding remains available under MD3237 or the Major Events reserve?
5. Who made the final decision not to organise a free public semi-final screening, and on what date
6. Why is an O2 screening reportedly considered achievable for a possible final, while no civic event was provided for the semi-final?
7. Will City Hall commit to establishing a permanent London fan-zone protocol, with pre-identified sites and framework contracts that can be activated when an England team reaches the latter stages of a major tournament?

Our response

1. The cost of hosting a public football screening can vary significantly depending on factors such as venue location, capacity, infrastructure requirements, security arrangements, and event operations. Costs can range from approximately £400,000 to in excess of £1 million. In light of these costs, and the increasing success of both the England men's and women's national football teams in major international tournaments, the Greater London Authority has adopted a strategic approach to public screenings. To ensure value for money and the responsible use of public funds, particularly during a period of significant financial pressure on public sector budgets, the GLA's current approach is to consider hosting screenings for tournament finals only.
2. No site was considered for semi-final screening as per question 1
3. Relevant stakeholders were approached in January – February 2026 to understand the
   feasibility of hosting a finals screening.
4. £991,000 has been spent against MD3237 to date.
5. No final decision was required on whether to host a semi-final screening. This is because the
   GLA's established approach over the previous four years had been to organise public screenings
   for final matches only, rather than earlier-stage fixtures.
6. As per response in Question 1
7. City Hall will continue to work with relevant partners and stakeholders to assess the most
   appropriate, safe and cost-effective options for public celebrations and screenings associated
   with major sporting tournaments. Any decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis, taking
   into account factors such as public demand, operational feasibility, value for money and
   available resources.