LONDON, May 26 (Xinhua) -- British Environment Secretary Michael Gove emerged Sunday as the eighth challenger to become the country's next Prime Minister.

With former Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson already in the list of hopefuls to replace Theresa May at 10 Downing Street, it will pitch the two political heavyweights against each other for the top job in British politics.

It will also be a repeat of the 2016 campaign for the leadership of the governing Conservative Party after May's predecessor David Cameron quit.

"I can confirm that I will be putting my name forward to be prime minister of this country," Gove told reporters outside his home.

"I believe that I'm ready to unite the Conservative and Unionist Party, ready to deliver Brexit, and ready to lead this great country," he said.

Gove came under attack in the 2016 race for what was seen as betrayal after he announced he would stand then for the job vacated by Cameron.

He has worked alongside Johnson on the Leave side in the 2016 referendum campaign when Johnson was emerging as a favorite to win.

Political commentators say a dividing line is emerging in the list of hopefuls between politicians who oppose a no-deal Brexit and those who are prepared to allow a no-deal Brexit if talks with Brussels fail.

The winner of the competition is expected to be chosen before the end of July, replacing May who is continuing as caretaker prime minister until then.