The decision to shift their focus to the 2031 tournament has left the USSF and Mexican counterpart to compete for the 2027 Women’s World Cup. While Brazil and a joint Germany-Netherlands-Belgium plan are still in contention, proposals from both countries will be considered by FIFA Congress meeting on May 17 in Bangkok.
The USSF has announced that they will invest equally in both the men’s and women’s World Cups for the 2031 tournament, with FIFA planning to spend $896 million in prize money for the 2026 World Cup, $110 million of which was devoted to last year’s Women’s World Cup. USSF President Cindy Parlow Cone stated that hosting a World Cup is a significant undertaking, and shifting their bid back to 2031 will allow them to create an equitable experience for players, fans, and stakeholders.
Last December, the USSF outlined proposed U.S. sites for the 2031 bid using the same 11 venues planned for the 2026 men’s World Cup. Mexico listed Guadalajara, Mexico City, and Monterrey as their three main sites along with Leon and Querétaro as possibilities for 2031. Mexican Football Federation President Ivar Sisnieg expressed confidence that this move will allow them to create a successful Women’s World Cup that will benefit from their professional women’s leagues and experience organizing the 2026 World Cup.
In conclusion, while there are still several competing bids for the 2027 Women’s World Cup, shifting their focus to hosting it in 2031 has given both sides more time to prepare and potentially provide an equitable experience for all involved. The decision marks a step forward towards growing and elevating women’s soccer globally.
