United States to Host the Women’s World Cup in 2031
The United States has been awarded the rights to host the Women’s World Cup in 2031, marking the third time the country will host the tournament. The FIFA decision comes after the U.S. Soccer Federation submitted the only bid for the event. Although Mexico was initially part of a joint bid for 2027, the U.S. and Mexico withdrew their proposal for the 2027 edition, redirecting efforts to 2031. The 2031 tournament is expected to expand to 48 teams, aligning with FIFA’s plans to broaden the competition.
United Kingdom to Host the Women’s World Cup in 2035
The United Kingdom is set to host the Women’s World Cup in 2035, with FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirming that the proposal from the Home Nations led by the UK is the only valid bid received. The joint bid includes England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. FA CEO Mark Bullingham expressed honor in being the sole candidate and emphasized the significance of potentially hosting the first FIFA World Cup in the UK since 1966. The proposal includes plans to utilize stadiums across the four nations, with minimum capacity requirements allowing facilities like Windsor Park in Belfast to be part of the event.
Expansion of the Tournament Format
Both tournaments will feature an expanded format, with FIFA planning to increase the number of teams from 32 to 48 starting in 2031. This change reflects the growing global interest and investment in women’s football.
Brazil to Host Next Year’s Event
Brazil will host the FIFA Women’s World Cup for the first time from June 24 to July 25, 2027, becoming the first South American nation to host the tournament.
The FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 will be the tenth edition of the tournament, with 32 nations competing for the title.
The competition has been held every four years since its inaugural edition, the FIFA Women’s World Cup China PR 1991™, where the U.S. defeated Norway in the final.
Since then, the tournament has had seven different hosts, and five nations have been crowned champions: the U.S. (4), Germany (2), Norway, Japan, and Spain.
Sources: Reuters, The Guardian and FIFA.COM