UK Emerges as Front-Runner to Host Historic 2035 FIFA Women’s World Cup
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has announced that the United Kingdom is currently the only confirmed candidate to host the 2035 FIFA Women’s World Cup, following a formal joint bid submission by England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland earlier this year. This landmark proposal, if successful, would mark the first time the Women’s World Cup is held across the UK’s four home nations and the second World Cup event on British soil since the iconic 1966 Men’s World Cup in England.
Key Details of the Bid
- Collaborative Effort: The UK nations united in March 2023 to express joint interest, leveraging existing infrastructure like stadiums from UEFA Euro 2020 and the 2022 Women’s Euros.
- FIFA Rotation Rules: The bid aligns with FIFA’s continental rotation policy, requiring the 2035 tournament to be hosted in Europe or Africa. While Spain, Portugal, and Morocco explored a cross-continental bid, they missed the recent deadline, solidifying the UK’s position.
- Expanded Tournament: Infantin confirmed the 2031 edition, likely hosted by the U.S. with potential CONCACAF partners, will expand to 48 teams —a 50% increase from 2027—to promote global inclusivity in women’s football.
Strategic Implications:
- Legacy & Growth: FA CEO Mark Bullingham emphasized the bid’s potential to “accelerate the women’s game globally,” building on England’s 2022 Euro triumph and the record-breaking 2023 Women’s World Cup in Australia/New Zealand.
- Economic Boost: Hosting could generate billions in revenue, mirroring the £2.7B economic impact of the 2022 Women’s Euros in England.
- Competitive Edge: The UK’s advanced facilities, transportation networks, and proven success in major events (e.g., 2012 Olympics) strengthen its case over emerging bids.
Next Steps:
- Formal bids must be submitted by December 2024, with FIFA’s Congress voting in 2026.
- Challenges include finalizing host cities, ensuring government support, and addressing sustainability goals—a key FIFA priority post-2026 World Cup.
Global Context:
This bid underscores Europe’s dominance in FIFA hosting rights, while Morocco’s speculated involvement highlights Africa’s growing influence. Meanwhile, the U.S. aims to redefine women’s sports visibility with its 2031 plans, creating a decade of transformative opportunities for the game.
Quote Spotlight:
“Hosting the World Cup isn’t just about football—it’s about inspiring generations and leaving a lasting legacy,” Bullingham stated, signaling the UK’s ambition to lead women’s sports into a new era.