Jonathan Wilson The Power and the Glory: A New History of the World Cup

The Talbot

The football World Cup is the most watched sporting event on the planet. In 2026, it was the longest ever with 48 teams taking part, increasing the number of matches to 104. There has never been a comprehensive history of the World Cup that has considered not only the matches and goals, the players and coaches, the tales of scandal and genius, the haggling and skulduggery of the bidding process, but has also placed the tournaments within a socio-political framework. The author of footballing classic Inverting the Pyramid puts a fresh and invigorating spin on the history of the World Cup. Tom Holland said of it: Epic in scope, awesomely rich in detail, and compulsively entertaining. Jonathan is a columnist for the Guardian and World Soccer and the founder and editor of The Blizzard. He will be talking to Gavin Jamieson, local author and avid football fan. Doors open about 15 minutes before the start time. Booking will open for Sponsors, Benefactors and Friends at 9am on Saturday 15th August. Booking opens to the public at 9am on Saturday 22nd August. Tickets are 14 or 10 for those 24 or under. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.