United States has been selected to host 2031 Women’s World Cup. United Kingdom is set to host 2035 tournament. Fifa announced it at 49th UEFA Congress in Belgrade, Serbia.
Key Highlights
USA as Host for 2031 Women’s World Cup:
- Sole Bid: United States was sole bidder for 2031 edition after withdrawing plans to host 2027 tournament (which will be held in Brazil).
- Regional Collaboration: Hosting will likely involve collaboration with other CONCACAF nations (such as Mexico).
- Historic Hosting: This will be USA’s third time hosting Women’s World Cup. It previously hosted tournaments in 1999 and 2003.
- Record Set: As four-time winners, United States will be first country to host Women’s World Cup three times.
UK as Host for 2035 Women’s World Cup:
- Joint Bid: Only valid bid for 2035 edition came from a joint bid by England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
- New Territory for Women’s World Cup: UK (and its constituent nations) has never hosted a Women’s World Cup but has a strong football legacy; example, England hosted Women’s Euros in 2022 and won tournament on home soil.
- Potential Future Opportunities: 2035 bid may pave the way for the UK men’s national team to host a future edition of Men’s World Cup, with last hosting dating back to 1966.
Tournament Expansion and Global Context
Growth in Participation: Following the successful expansion at the 2023 Australia-New Zealand tournament, the 2027 Women’s World Cup will feature 32 teams, while the 2031 edition is set to expand further to 48 teams.
Historical Comparisons:
- 2024 Paris Olympics: Featured 12 teams in the women’s tournament.
- Men’s Tournaments: Recent editions have seen 16 teams in some formats, highlighting the rapid growth and increased competitiveness in women’s football.
Bidding Process:
- Formal bids for 2035: Must be submitted by winter 2025.
- Voting to confirm hosts for 2031 & 2035: Scheduled for next year.