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The FIFA Women’s World Cup is set for a major expansion. Starting with the 2031 edition, the tournament will grow from 32 to 48 teams, aligning with the men’s format. FIFA made the announcement on Friday, confirming that the expanded format will feature 12 groups and a total of 104 matches — up from 64 — extending the tournament by an additional week.
The decision brings the women’s tournament in line with the changes already made to the men’s World Cup, which will expand to the same number of teams in 2026.
2027 Tournament in Brazil to Retain 32-Team Format
While the expansion is slated for 2031, the upcoming 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil will maintain the current 32-team format. This structure was first introduced during the 2023 edition co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand, which marked a jump from the 24 teams featured in 2019.
Infantino: “This Is Not Just About 16 More Teams”
FIFA President Gianni Infantino stressed that the expansion is about more than just numbers. “This is not just about having 16 more teams playing in the FIFA Women’s World Cup but taking the next steps in relation to the women’s game in general,” he said in a statement.
He emphasized the broader developmental goals behind the decision, stating, “…more FIFA member associations have the chance to benefit from the tournament to develop their women’s football structures from a holistic point of view.”
2023 Edition’s Success Key to Expansion
Infantino pointed to the landmark success of the 2023 tournament — won by Spain — as a driving factor behind the move. He dismissed concerns about potential lopsided matchups, citing a notable rise in competitiveness across the board.
“The FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, the first in which teams from all confederations won at least one game and teams from five confederations reached the knockout stage, among many other records, set a new standard for global competitiveness,” he noted.
“This decision ensures we are maintaining the momentum in terms of growing women’s football globally,” Infantino added.
USA Frontrunner for 2031 Hosting Duties
The United States appears set to host the 2031 Women’s World Cup, being the only country to submit a formal bid. If confirmed, this would be the third time the U.S. stages the event, having previously hosted in 1999 and 2003.
Meanwhile, the United Kingdom is currently the sole bidder for the 2035 edition. FIFA has yet to officially ratify the hosts for both tournaments.
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