Historic Joint Bid for 2035 Women's World Cup
In a landmark announcement, the United Kingdom and Ireland have submitted an unopposed joint bid to host the 2035 FIFA Women's World Cup. This ambitious proposal, a collaborative effort from the football associations of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, could see the global tournament return to British soil for the first time since the men's competition in 1966.
Stadiums and Tournament Format
The bid, officially revealed on Friday, includes a total of 22 potential host stadiums across the four nations. The distribution sees 16 venues in England, three in Wales, two in Scotland, and one in Northern Ireland. The Scottish grounds named in the bid are the national stadium, Hampden Park, and Edinburgh's Easter Road, home to Hibernian FC.
This selection is timed perfectly with the upcoming expansion of the Women's World Cup. Starting from the 2031 edition, the tournament will mirror the men's format by featuring 48 competing teams. This enlarged format will require at least 15 stadiums to host a total of 104 matches played over 39 days. A final ratification of the UK and Ireland's bid is expected to take place during a FIFA congress in 2026.
Legacy and Immediate Football Action
The chief executives of the four football associations released a powerful joint statement, asserting that a Women's World Cup in the UK has the potential to 'turbo charge the women's and girls' game both in the UK and globally.' They emphasised a firm commitment to creating a lasting legacy for the sport in the years leading up to 2035 and beyond.
Echoing this sentiment, Scotland head coach Melissa Andreatta highlighted the profound long-term impact, stating that hosting the World Cup would drive 'participation, investment and equality at every level of the sport' for decades to come.
In related football news, Coach Andreatta's Scottish side demonstrated their resilience on the pitch in a friendly match against Ukraine in Jerez. After falling behind to a first-half goal from Roksolona Kravchuk, Scotland secured a dramatic 1-1 draw with a stoppage-time equaliser from debutant Maria McAneny. The late goal, fired in during the sixth minute of added time following a corner scramble, ensured a positive note as the team prepares for their next friendly against China.
