Uk set to bid for 2035 womens world cup

The United Kingdom is preparing to submit a formal bid to host the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2035, marking a significant moment for British football. England will collaborate with Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland to organise the tournament, a move that could solidify Britain’s reputation as a major player in global football. This follows the successful hosting of Euro 2022, a landmark event for women’s football in England.

Sources close to the UK bid have indicated that preparations are already underway, with a formal expression of interest to be submitted to FIFA later this month. FIFA’s bidding timeline requires declarations for the 2031 and 2035 tournaments by the end of March, and final bid files must be submitted by November this year. The 2035 decision will likely be made in 2026, giving the home nations several years to refine their proposal.

Support for this initiative has come from prominent figures, including UK Labour Leader Keir Starmer, who stated that a Women’s World Cup on home soil would cement football’s role in British culture and deliver a lasting legacy for the next generation. Mark Bullingham, CEO of the English FA, echoed this sentiment, emphasising that hosting the tournament would amplify the rapid growth of the women’s game while showcasing Britain’s capacity to hold a world-class competition.

Strategically, the bid hinges on both UEFA’s endorsement and widespread support from FIFA member nations. Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland’s involvement will strengthen the proposal, aligning with FIFA’s mission to expand the women’s game globally. Recent shifts in FIFA’s governance, aimed at eliminating past controversies over corruption, also position the UK in a more favourable position for securing the tournament.

While the competition framework is currently outlined for 32 teams, FIFA is reportedly exploring an expansion to 48 teams. If implemented, this could increase costs and logistical requirements, but the potential economic and cultural benefits for the UK could outweigh these challenges. Hosting the Women’s World Cup would also open doors for a future bid to host a men’s World Cup, addressing a long-standing ambition for English football since last hosting in 1966.

Bidding for the Women’s World Cup complements other major events scheduled in the UK, including the UEFA Men’s Euro 2028. This consistent success in hosting prestigious competitions underscores the UK’s appeal as a reliable host and showcases its commitment to advancing football on a global stage. As preparations continue, the UK is likely to position itself as a leading candidate for one of football’s most pivotal events.