London's failed 2018 World Cup bid could be given kiss of life after Blatter resignation

London's failed bid to host the 2018 World Cup could be given the kiss of life following the resignation of Fifa boss Sepp Blatter.

Boris Johnson tonight floated the prospect of a fresh contest to stage the tournament in the wake of Blatter's shock decision.

London's mayor said England's bid to host the World Cup in 2018 should be revived if Blatter's departure uncovered a trail of corruption.

Wembley Stadium. Credit: PA Wire

In a controversial vote in Zurich in 2010, Russia and Qatar were chosen as host countries for successive tournaments in 2018 and 2022.

Johnson said London was ready and willing to stage World Cup matches if Fifa reversed its decision to award the 2018 finals to Vladimir Putin's Russia.

Mayor of London Boris Johnson. Credit: Reuters