Prime Minister Anthony Albanese defends a holiday to celebrate if the Matildas win the World Cup and strikes a deal with Emmanuel Macron
- State leaders have debated a holiday if the Matildas win
- Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says he will support holiday
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has lifted hopes of a bank holiday if the Matildas win the World Cup, saying the team has “inspired the nation”.
Speaking to reporters on Saturday, Mr Albanese supported the idea but warned that it would be up to state and territory leaders to decide.
“All of Australia will be watching and cheering on the Matildas,” he said.
“I certainly wish the Matildas well this afternoon at 5 p.m. at Suncorp.”
Responding to criticism from industry groups claiming the move could cost the economy billions of dollars, Mr Albanese denied that it would.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (above) has lifted hopes of a holiday if the Matildas win the World Cup
Mr Albanese tweeted (above) on Saturday asking French Prime Minister Emmanuel Macron to join a deal that would require the losing country’s Prime Minister to support the winning country in the semi-finals
“I note that concerns were raised as we had the holiday for the sad death of Queen Elizabeth II and some said this was something that would cause economic disruption,” he said.
“Of course what that did was lead to more economic activity in a lot of businesses, especially small businesses.”
He promised to raise the prospect with prime ministers and prime ministers at next week’s national cabinet meeting.
Mr. Albanese will personally attend Australia’s quarterfinals on Saturday night.
Despite showing up at the Mount Isa Rodeo in northwest Queensland just hours earlier, Mr Albanese was seen entering Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium just before 4pm.
Earlier in the day, the prime minister struck a deal with his French colleague Emmanuel Macron.
Mr Albanese applauded the Matildas (above) and said the team has ‘inspired the nation’
Depending on the winner of tonight’s match, the losing country’s Prime Minister will have to support the winning country in the semi-finals.
How about a bet @EmmanuelMacron? If @TheMatildas win tonight you will support Australia in the semi-finals. If the @equipedefranceF wins, I will support France. Agreement? #GoMatildas,” Albanian tweeted Saturday afternoon.
It seemed to have a positive response from Mr Macron, who is known to be an ardent football fan.
“The World Cup has been brilliantly co-organized by you, Australia. It’s an honor to meet the Matildas in the quarterfinals today, but don’t worry: Les Bleues will take the lead! Agreement.’