LONDON, Oct. 31 (Xinhua) -- The Football Association confirmed on Wednesday that England will bid to host the 2018 World Cup finals.

The announcement came two days after world soccer governing body FIFA's decision to end its rotation policy which left the 2018 race wide open.

FIFA President Sepp Blatter attends a press conference at the end of the FIFA Executive Committee at the FIFA headquarters in Zurich Oct. 29, 2007. FIFA's executive committee has voted unanimously on Monday to end its policy of rotating the hosting of World Cups through its six continental confederations. (Xinhua/Reuters Photo)

Photo Gallery>>>

"I'm delighted to announce our intention to bid to host the World Cup in 2018," FA chairman Geoff Thompson said after a board meeting.

"This follows FIFA's announcement on Monday that the previous rotation policy will be discontinued, and the positive comments made by FIFA president Sepp Blatter.

"The tremendous support from Prime Minister Gordon Brown and his government has also been a key consideration in today's decision."

Brown expressed his delight on Monday at FIFA "opening the door" for England's bid and pledged "full support" from the government.

England last hosted the World Cup in 1966 and they lost out to Germany for the right to stage the 2006 tournament.

FA believed it was a right time to bid again despite the stiff competition from possible rivals they are likely to face.

"This is a great moment for all of us who love the game in this country," FA chief executive Brian Barwick said, "the excitement and expectation from the public to a prospective bid has been incredible."

"It is very clear that the English football public want to see the World Cup back in this country."

Belgium and the Netherlands have already confirmed they would make a joint bid while Australia, China, the United States, Japan, Russia and Spain are also expected to take part in the running.