The United States and Mexico have officially withdrawn their joint bid to host the 2027 Women’s World Cup, choosing instead to redirect their efforts towards securing the tournament in 2031.
This decision comes as a surprise, with the announcement arriving less than three weeks before the hosts were initially set to be chosen at a Fifa congress scheduled for 17th May in Bangkok. As a result, the remaining bids for the 2027 Women’s World Cup are now exclusively from Brazil and a joint effort from Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands.
In a joint statement released by the U.S. Soccer and Mexican Football Federations, it was revealed that their focus on the 2031 bid stems from the ambition to institute equal investment for the women’s tournament, mirroring the level of support given to the men’s competition. This unprecedented commitment to gender equality in football is sure to be championed by fans and players alike.
Elaborating on the rationale behind their decision, the federations highlighted their desire to learn from the experience and achievements of the 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the US, Mexico, and Canada. By harnessing these insights, they aim to enhance support for host cities, expand partnerships and media arrangements, and further engage with the global fan base, all with the aim of delivering a record-breaking tournament in 2031.
Cindy Parlow Cone, President of US Soccer, emphasised the magnitude of the task at hand, noting, “Hosting a World Cup tournament is a huge undertaking – and having additional time to prepare allows us to maximize its impact across the globe.” This assertion underscores the federations’ commitment to ensuring that the 2031 Women’s World Cup will leave an indelible mark on the world stage.
While the decision to withdraw from the 2027 bid may be unexpected, it is evident that the US and Mexico are resolute in their dedication to championing women’s football and propelling the sport to new heights. The shift in focus towards the 2031 bid is indicative of the long-term vision held by both nations, as they aspire to set a new standard for gender equality and inclusivity in football.
With the landscape of international football evolving rapidly, the decision by the US and Mexico to withdraw their bid for the 2027 Women’s World Cup serves as a testament to their unwavering commitment to advancing the sport in a progressive and inclusive manner. As the footballing world eagerly anticipates the upcoming bids for the 2031 tournament, it is abundantly clear that the US and Mexico are steadfast in their resolve to leave an indelible mark on the future of women’s football.