2035 Women’s World Cup set for the UK

The United Kingdom has been the only valid bidder for the 2035 FIFA Women’s World Cup, according to FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have submitted a joint expression of interest to host the tournament, making it the likely host nation.

Under FIFA’s rotation policy, the 2035 tournament must take place in either Europe or Africa.

The deadline for expressions of interest passed earlier this week, with no other European or African bids submitted.

Formal bids must be submitted this winter, with FIFA set to confirm the host in a 2026 congress. Should the UK be awarded the tournament, it would be the first Women’s World Cup held in the region and the second World Cup in the home nations following the 1966 men’s tournament in England.

Infantino also stated that the 2031 Women’s World Cup, set to take place in the United States, will feature 48 teams, an increase from 32 in 2027. The expansion aligns with FIFA’s broader efforts to develop women’s football globally.

The Football Association Chief Executive, Mark Bullingham, has acknowledged the UK’s status as the only bidder, stating that efforts will now focus on preparing the formal bid by the end of the year.