Andy Burnham, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, expressed his disbelief at the fact that the UK has only hosted one World Cup since 1966, labeling the situation as "insane." During a discussion on the Away Days podcast, he criticized FIFA and UEFA, suggesting they may have something against the home nations.

Burnham recalled his involvement in England's unsuccessful bid for the 2018 World Cup, which ultimately went to Russia. He noted the controversies surrounding that bid and the 2022 Qatar World Cup that led to the ousting of former FIFA president Sepp Blatter and other high-ranking officials due to allegations of bribery. England's bid received only two votes from a total of 22 FIFA executive committee members.

In the podcast, host Ellis Platten remarked on the rarity of the World Cup being hosted in Britain, prompting Burnham to reflect on the lack of attention given to the country that originated the sport. He stated, "It makes you wonder whether the authorities at the European and global level have something against us."

Despite the absence of the World Cup for 60 years, the UK has hosted matches at the men's European Championships twice and is set to host fixtures in the 2028 tournament along with Ireland. Furthermore, the UK will welcome the women’s World Cup in 2035.

Burnham has also called for current FIFA president Gianni Infantino to resign, criticizing his controversial proposal to sell shares in the World Cup to private investors. He asserted that Infantino is "the wrong man" to lead football globally and condemned the offensive nature of the plan to football enthusiasts worldwide.