London is preparing to host significant public screenings of the World Cup final at the O2 Arena, with an estimated 20,000 fans expected if England secures victory against Argentina. The O2 Arena has been identified as a likely venue, having previously hosted screenings for the Euro 2024 final between England and Spain.
Some fans have voiced frustration regarding the lack of existing mass screening plans for the current match, which is described as a historic encounter against a long-standing rival. Online commentary highlights a perceived disparity with other European countries that frequently organize large public gatherings for major sporting events, sometimes utilizing stadiums or parks.
The criticism draws a comparison to 2018, when England reached the World Cup semi-finals. At that time, a 30,000-capacity screen was set up in Hyde Park by City Hall and the government, with fans selected via a ballot to watch the match against Croatia. That event required less organizational effort as Hyde Park was already being used for large events and had no other scheduled functions.
This year, the park's summer series has concluded, and it is understood that insufficient time prevented the safe organization of a similar large-scale event. England's progression to the semi-finals was only confirmed early Sunday morning after their match against Norway.
City Hall acknowledged the team's success and stated there are no current plans for a screening of the match against Argentina. However, the Mayor's office encouraged Londoners to support hospitality venues across the capital to cheer on England. If England advances to and wins the World Cup, a large celebration is reportedly planned for Tuesday, July 21, in London.
The final match is scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. UK time. Should England win the tournament, a collaborative effort involving City Hall, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, Westminster City Council, and the Football Association is anticipated to organize what could be the largest celebration for a sporting event in the UK's history. Plans are in place, contingent on England overcoming formidable opponents Argentina and Spain in the tournament's later stages.