Austria forward Marko Arnautovic has jokingly called for a future public holiday on November 18 to mark Austria’s first men’s World Cup participation since 1998.

They qualified on Tuesday for June’s finals in North America after a 1-1 draw in Vienna against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

“It is a message to the government. It is a message to the president, to the chancellor: I would like everyone in Austria to have a holiday on November 18, because we will probably not experience this again, because after the World Cup Arni is gone,” the 36-year-old told ORF with a wink.

In June, Austria’s record international appearance maker announced he would retire from the national team after next year’s World Cup.

“I wish everyone the best, stay healthy, don’t drink so much,” added Red Star Belgrade’s Arnautovic amid the post-match party.

Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker responded on Instagram: “The date is fixed. November 18th won’t be an official public holiday, but it will still be a day to celebrate.”

Haris Tabakovic (12th minute) had put the visitors ahead early with a header.

But substitute Michael Gregoritsch (77th minute) rescued direct qualification for Austria as the Bosnians had to settle for the play-offs.