- Joined
- May 8, 2002
- Posts
- 546,298
- Reaction score
- 47
The Women’s World Cup is set to make history in 2031 by expanding to 48 teams, a bold leap for women’s soccer. The United States is the frontrunner to host this landmark tournament, with the United Kingdom likely to follow in 2035. This move signals a bright future for soccer, promising more global representation and excitement for the women’s game.
The expansion will boost the tournament from 32 to 48 teams, increasing matches from 64 to 104, mirroring the men’s 2026 World Cup format. Teams will compete in 12 groups of four, with the top two teams and the eight best third-placed teams advancing to a round of 32. FIFA believes this will spark greater investment in women’s soccer worldwide, giving more nations a shot at elite competition.
FIFPro, the global players’ union, has welcomed the expansion but with a caveat. They stress that growth must come with better working conditions, inclusive decision-making, and support for players at all levels. Their call underscores the need for sustainable progress in the women’s game, beyond just adding teams.
Related: Trans-Atlantic Ban For 'Women' In Controversial New FA Ruling
The Women’s World Cup has grown steadily, jumping from 24 to 32 teams for the 2023 edition in Australia and New Zealand. That tournament proved doubters wrong, delivering thrilling matches and packed stadiums without the feared lopsided scores. The 2027 edition in Brazil will keep the 32-team format, with eight iconic venues, including Rio’s Maracanã, confirmed last week.
Hosting a 48-team tournament will be a massive undertaking, especially for the U.S., which last hosted in 2003. More stadiums and cities will likely be needed, including CONCACAF neighbors like Mexico. The U.K.’s 2035 bid may tap venues like Wembley and new stadiums in Manchester or Birmingham, if ready.
This expansion is a game-changer, offering more players a chance to shine on the world stage. Yet, challenges like logistics, competitive balance, and player welfare must be addressed to ensure success. Fans can expect a bigger, bolder Women’s World Cup that could redefine the sport for generations.
Next: Fake World Cup 2026 Tickets Are Here — How to Avoid the Scam
Continue reading...
The USA is expected to host in 2031
The expansion will boost the tournament from 32 to 48 teams, increasing matches from 64 to 104, mirroring the men’s 2026 World Cup format. Teams will compete in 12 groups of four, with the top two teams and the eight best third-placed teams advancing to a round of 32. FIFA believes this will spark greater investment in women’s soccer worldwide, giving more nations a shot at elite competition.
FIFPro, the global players’ union, has welcomed the expansion but with a caveat. They stress that growth must come with better working conditions, inclusive decision-making, and support for players at all levels. Their call underscores the need for sustainable progress in the women’s game, beyond just adding teams.
Related: Trans-Atlantic Ban For 'Women' In Controversial New FA Ruling
The Women’s World Cup has grown steadily, jumping from 24 to 32 teams for the 2023 edition in Australia and New Zealand. That tournament proved doubters wrong, delivering thrilling matches and packed stadiums without the feared lopsided scores. The 2027 edition in Brazil will keep the 32-team format, with eight iconic venues, including Rio’s Maracanã, confirmed last week.
Hosting a 48-team tournament will be a massive undertaking, especially for the U.S., which last hosted in 2003. More stadiums and cities will likely be needed, including CONCACAF neighbors like Mexico. The U.K.’s 2035 bid may tap venues like Wembley and new stadiums in Manchester or Birmingham, if ready.
This expansion is a game-changer, offering more players a chance to shine on the world stage. Yet, challenges like logistics, competitive balance, and player welfare must be addressed to ensure success. Fans can expect a bigger, bolder Women’s World Cup that could redefine the sport for generations.
Next: Fake World Cup 2026 Tickets Are Here — How to Avoid the Scam
Continue reading...