(AP photo)GENEVA - The North American bid to host the 2026 World Cup has asked Fifa for a decision in June 2018, two years ahead of schedule. The Russian capital hosts the annual meeting on the eve of the opening match of the 2018 World Cup. Fifa bidding rules have made the North American bid a strong favorite to win because Europe and Asia cannot present a candidate. Although South America and Africa can rival the U.S.-led bid, Argentina and Uruguay - the original World Cup host in 1930 - are focused on a centenary tournament in 2030. Africa is seen as lacking facilities even for a co-hosting bid for an expanded 48-team World Cup, which has added demand for stadiums, training camps, hotels and transport.

Source: Bangkok Post April 11, 2017 20:21 UTC