England embarrassingly crashed out in the first round yesterday with just two votes as Russia went on to win the right to host the event.

Hunt said: "Like all football fans across England, I am disappointed that England did not prevail in its bid to host the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

"The bid team delivered an outstanding bid that was technically excellent, had a compelling global legacy and captured the spirit and passion of sport.

"Of equal importance, the England 2018 Bid Team demonstrated the highest standards of professionalism and integrity throughout the bid process."

The result was a stark contrast to London's bid for the 2012 Olympics when the capital saw off Paris in Singapore in 2005.

Sebastian Coe, now London 2012 chair, was the mastermind of the bid but Sir Craig Reedie, who was then chairman of the BOA, also played a huge role in helping London secure the event.

This time however, BOA members could only watch on as England were defeated, although Hunt said they must be praised for the quality of what they had done in their attempts to secure the World Cup.

"While we are disappointed in the outcome, it is important to recognise and thank England 2018 for their outstanding work in designing and delivering the bid," said Hunt.

"And of course, we congratulate Russia on being awarded the 2018 FIFA World Cup and Qatar the 2022 FIFA World Cup."

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]


Related stories
December 2010: Sochi 2014 chief "delighted" Russia hosting 2018 FIFA World Cup