They had been planning to apply to host the 2030 World Cup – the centenary edition of the competition – but changed their plans after identifying “many areas of uncertainty” in a feasibility study.
England, Scotland and Wales hosted matches at Euro 2020 last summer, including the final, which was staged at Wembley.
The last major international football tournament held on these shores was the 1996 European Championship in England.
England previously failed with a bid – led by former sports minister, Sheffield’s very own Richard Caborn – to host the 2018 World Cup, which was eventually staged in Russia.
Sheffield was chosen as one of 12 host cities, with games to be played at Hillsborough, the home of Sheffield Wednesday.
As such the city featured heavily in the campaign, with the city’s football clubs uniting to throw their support behind the bid.
5. More support
Sports stars, soap stars and council...stars back the bid for Sheffield for the 2018 World Cup. Photo: Glenn Ashley
6. Michael Vaughan
England Cricketer Michael Vaughan supporting the bid for Sheffield to host World Cup games in 2018. Photo: Tracey Welch
7. Backing the bid
Sheffield Wednesday goalkeeper Lee Grant and striker Marcus Tudgay back the bid with staff at Morrisons Hillsborough. Photo: JPI Media
8. The immensely popular England band
The official England band backing Sheffield Bid to host some of the 2018 World Cup matches in the City. Photo: Barry Richardson