In a surprising turn of events, the United States and Mexico have withdrawn their joint bid to host the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. This decision, announced on April 29, 2024, comes just weeks before the May 17th vote by the FIFA Congress. The federations will now focus on securing the 2031 edition of the prestigious tournament.
The announcement raises several questions. Why did the North American bid shift gears? What are the potential benefits of waiting for 2031?
Seeking a Bigger Spotlight
The federations cited a desire for a “record-breaking Women’s World Cup” and a commitment to “equal investment” as critical factors in their decision. This suggests a belief that there might be better environments for maximizing the tournament’s potential than in 2027.
One factor could be the proximity to the 2026 Men’s World Cup, also co-hosted by the US, Mexico, and Canada. Staging the Women’s World Cup so close to the men’s event might limit sponsorship opportunities and media attention.
Financial Parity and Growth
The federations also emphasized their desire for “equal investment” between the men’s and women’s tournaments. This could be a strategic move to attract higher sponsorship dollars and ensure robust financial backing for the event. A well-funded tournament would benefit the host nations and the global development of women’s soccer.
Building Momentum in North America
Mexico’s growing women’s professional league and the US Women’s National Team (USWNT) dominance suggest a fertile ground for women’s soccer in North America. By 2031, these trends could be even more pronounced, potentially leading to a more engaged fan base and a more vibrant tournament atmosphere.
Impact on the 2027 Race
The withdrawal of the North American bid leaves Brazil and a joint bid from Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands as the remaining contenders for 2027. This unexpected development opens the door for a different region to host the tournament, potentially increasing geographical diversity within the Women’s World Cup.
A Calculated Move for Women’s Soccer
While the decision may be surprising in the short term, it is a strategic move by the US and Mexican federations. By focusing on 2031, they hope to create a Women’s World Cup that not only showcases the best of North American soccer but also catalyzes the continued growth of the women’s game globally.
The success of this strategy will depend on FIFA’s decision in May and the federations’ ability to deliver on their promises of equal investment and a record-breaking tournament in 2031. One thing is sure: the 2031 Women’s World Cup, potentially hosted by North America, is shaping up to be worth waiting for.
