Following the announcement made by U.S. Soccer and the Mexican Football Federation, it has been confirmed that the joint bid to co-host the 2027 Women’s World Cup has been withdrawn. Instead, the federations have decided to shift their focus towards securing the rights to host the 2031 Women’s World Cup. This decision marks a strategic move in the world of international football as the bidding process for the 2027 World Cup reaches its final stages.
One of the key factors influencing this decision is the upcoming hosting responsibilities of both the U.S. and Mexico in the realm of major sporting events. The U.S., Mexico, and Canada are already set to co-host the 2026 Men’s World Cup, making it the largest tournament in history with 48 teams. Additionally, Los Angeles is scheduled to host the 2028 Summer Olympics. With these significant events on the horizon, the 2027 Women’s World Cup would have faced stiff competition for resources and sponsorships, potentially diluting its impact.
In a statement released by U.S. Soccer president Cindy Parlow Cone, she emphasized the importance of adequate preparation time in maximizing the impact of hosting a World Cup tournament. By shifting their bid to 2031, the federations aim to provide equitable and enhanced experiences for players, fans, and stakeholders alike. The goal is to not only grow the women’s game domestically but also elevate its status on a global scale.
The joint bid put forth by the U.S. and Mexico for the 2027 Women’s World Cup was heavily focused on commercial aspects, claiming the potential to sell out high-capacity stadiums and set attendance records. The bid aimed to attract 4.5 million fans and generate $3 billion in total revenue. Furthermore, there was a call for equal investment in the women’s tournament compared to the men’s. FIFA’s plans to allocate a significant amount in prize money for the 2026 Men’s World Cup in North America were taken into consideration during the bidding process.
Drawing from the successful organization of the 2026 Men’s World Cup, the U.S. and Mexico highlighted their proven ability to provide top-tier infrastructure and engage an enthusiastic fan base. The emphasis was placed on creating a welcoming environment for all participating teams and contributing to the growth of women’s football globally. With the backing of strong professional women’s leagues in both countries, the federations aimed to ensure a memorable and impactful Women’s World Cup in the future.
The decision to withdraw from the 2027 Women’s World Cup bid does not diminish the rich history of both the U.S. and Mexico in hosting international football events. With past experiences hosting major tournaments, including the Women’s World Cup in 1999 and 2003, the federations remain committed to elevating the standards of women’s football. Looking ahead, the focus now turns towards the exciting prospect of hosting the 2031 Women’s World Cup and continuing to drive the growth and popularity of the sport.
The joint decision to withdraw from the 2027 bid in favor of focusing on the 2031 Women’s World Cup reflects a strategic and forward-thinking approach by U.S. Soccer and the Mexican Football Federation. By leveraging their experiences, resources, and vision, the federations aim to deliver a groundbreaking tournament that will leave a lasting impact on the world of women’s football.