Government confirms stance on extra bank holiday if England win Women's World Cup

There are 'no plans' for an extra bank holiday should England win the Women's World Cup, the government have stated.

The Lionesses take on Spain on Sunday in Sydney, and have the opportunity to win the competition for the first time.

Goals from Ella Toone, Lauren Hemp and Alessia Russo secured their passage through to the final with a 3-1 win over Australia, despite Sam Kerr's 25-yard strike.

England have defeated Nigeria, Colombia and now the Matildas in the knockout stages of the tournament, with manager Sarina Wiegman reaching her fourth consecutive major tournament final.

There have been calls to declare an extra bank holiday if England do win the World Cup.

The government ruled out adding a bank holiday after the Lionesses won the European Championships last year.

However, when England men's team reached the final of Euro 2020, then Prime Minister Boris Johnson did not rule out an extra bank holiday, and would not commit to whether it would happen.

Now, the government have commented on the possibility of an extra bank holiday this time around.

Government statement on England World Cup bank holiday

A government spokesperson told BBC News: "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."

Speaking in a press conference prior to England's semi-final clash against Australia, Wiegman was asked about whether she would be in favour of a bank holiday if her side was to win the tournament.

She replied: "Yes, I can see all the English here want it! I'm focusing on football and the game tomorrow, let's do everything to win the game tomorrow."

After the 3-1 victory, the Dutch manager spoke of her pride at the way her team had progressed to the showpiece event.

"I can hardly describe how proud I am of the team," she began. "This team has adapted all the time. Before the tournament, during the tournament, then this game again - how we came through and found a way to win again is so incredible."