UK Unveils Bid for FIFA Women’s World Cup 2035 in a United Effort

The English Football Association (FA), along with the Irish FA, Scottish FA, and FA of Wales, has submitted a collaborative bid to host the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2035. This event is set to be the largest single-sport tournament ever held in the United Kingdom, marking the first time the country has hosted a FIFA World Cup since 1966.

Proposed Venue and Accessibility

The joint bid features an impressive lineup of 22 stadiums located across 16 cities. These venues include:

• 16 in England
• 3 in Wales
• 2 in Scotland
• 1 in Northern Ireland

With approximately 63 million residents living within two hours of the proposed stadiums, this tournament promises unparalleled accessibility for fans.

Event Highlights

The FIFA Women’s World Cup 2035 will consist of:

• 104 matches
• 48 teams
• A duration of 39 days

The anticipated attendance of 4.5 million ticket sales and a projected global television viewership of 3.5 billion underscores the tournament’s potential to captivate a worldwide audience.

Vision and Legacy

The campaign is anchored in the vision termed ‘All Together’—a call to unite women’s sports globally. A joint statement from the four FA leaders expressed their enthusiasm, highlighting the privilege of hosting such a momentous occasion. They noted the significant potential for fostering women’s sport and leaving a lasting impact on communities.

Government Support

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer endorsed the bid, recognizing the UK’s passionate football culture. He emphasized the importance of the Lionesses’ success in inspiring future generations of female athletes.

Infrastructure and Development

The proposed venues are being designed to marry historical significance with modern innovation. This ensures compliance with FIFA standards while enhancing the experience for players and fans alike.

Community and Growth Strategy

The bid highlights a commitment to establishing a lasting legacy, focusing on three main pillars:

• Participation: Broaden access to football, particularly in under-represented communities.
• Leadership: Promote female leadership, aiming to double the number of women officials by 2035.
• Commercial Growth: Enhance the sport’s commercial viability, attract new supporters, and reinvest in grassroots initiatives.

List of Proposed Host Cities and Stadiums

This collective effort demonstrates the UK’s dedication to promoting women’s football and creating a platform for future generations. Hosting the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2035 represents a vital opportunity for transformation and growth in women’s sports.