FIFA Announces Hosts for the 2031 and 2035 Women’s World Cup
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has confirmed that the United States and the United Kingdom are set to host the Women’s World Cups in 2031 and 2035, respectively. This announcement was made during the UEFA Congress held in Belgrade.
Details of the Bid Process
Infantino revealed that the only bid for the 2031 Women’s World Cup has come from the United States, while the combined bid from England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland stands as the sole contender for the 2035 tournament. He emphasized that these bids were deemed “valid” following the official deadline.
Significance of the Announcements
The decision to host the Women’s World Cups in these two prominent nations marks a significant step in promoting women’s football globally. Infantino stated, “The path is there for the Women’s World Cup to be taking place in ’31 and ’35 in some great countries and some great nations to boost even more the women’s football movement.”
Context of UK Hosting
This will be the first time the United Kingdom hosts a Women’s World Cup. Previously, England hosted the Women’s Euros in 2022, where the national team emerged victorious. The last time the men’s FIFA World Cup was held in the UK was in 1966, making this potential bid especially historic for the home nations.
Support from Government Officials
The UK bid has garnered the support of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who voiced his enthusiasm after FIFA formally opened the bidding process. With Europe excluded from the 2031 contest, the United States is recognized as the frontrunner for that year.
Previous Champions and Future Prospects
The Spanish Football Federation had expressed interest in bidding, potentially in collaboration with Portugal and Morocco, who will host the men’s World Cup in 2030. However, Infantino clarified that there is only one “valid bid” for the 2035 tournament, thereby excluding the reigning Women’s World Cup champions from contention.
Statements from Football Executives
Mark Bullingham, CEO of the England Football Association, shared his excitement, noting, “We are honoured to be the sole bidder for the Women’s World Cup 2035. Hosting the first FIFA World Cup since 1966 with our home nations partners will be very special.” He emphasized that their team would focus on preparing the best possible bid by the end of the year.
Expansion of the Women’s World Cup
For the 2031 edition, the tournament will see an expanded format featuring 48 teams, following the successful enlargement of the competition to 32 teams in 2027. The U.S. will be hosting the Women’s World Cup for the third time, having previously hosted in 1999 and 2003.
Next Steps in the Bidding Process
Completion of formal bids for the 2035 World Cup is expected by the end of this year, with a vote planned for the upcoming year to finalize the host nations for both the 2031 and 2035 tournaments.