Government seeks ‘qualified candidate’ to lead efforts in 2030 World Cup bid

The Government is seeking a “suitably qualified candidate” to lead Irish efforts as part of the potential bid to host the 2030 World Cup.

Experience on the football field as an international player or coach is “desirable” for the role that will not be paid but will see the successful candidate’s travel and subsistence costs covered.

A joint bid to host the massive tournament along with the United Kingdom is being considered by both governments.

Minister of State for Sport Jack Chambers posted details of the role online as he said that work on the bid is “gathering pace”.

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If an ex-footballer is selected it will not be the first time a former sports person led an Irish bid for a major tournament.

Former tánaiste and Ireland rugby player Dick Spring was the chairman of Ireland’s unsuccessful bid to land the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

The Government is looking for someone to join the board of the newly established company UK & Ireland 2030 Limited. The aim of the company is to complete a feasibility study and advice on whether there should be a bid to host the 2030 World Cup.

If a decision is taken to proceed, the company will pursue and oversee it to its conclusion.

There will be 12 members on the board of the company and the position being advertised on stateboards.ie is that of the Government nominee.

Desirable characteristics for candidates to have include “experience as a football player/coach at international tournament level”.

Other sought after attributes are a strong background in sport and an understanding/experience of international sport relations as well as experience of public policy and government requirements and experience in bidding for or the delivery of major events.

“Strong leadership credentials” and “experience working across various countries resulting in an understanding and appreciation of various cultures” are also on the wish list as is “understanding of the duties and responsibilities of a director (Risks, Finances, Legal, Health and Safety etc)”.

Board meetings will generally be held in Wembley, London, but may be moved between locations in the UK and Ireland.

There may be an opportunity to attend some meetings virtually but candidates must be prepared to attend meetings in person.

The closing date for applications is November 26th.

Funding for attracting major sporting events to Ireland will be €6.4 million next year after an extra €400,000 was allocated for this in the budget.