The United States and Mexico have decided to withdraw their joint bid to host the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Instead, they will set their sights on co-hosting the 2031 edition of the prestigious tournament. This move leaves the 2027 competition open to two remaining contenders: a solo bid from Brazil and a collaborative effort by Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium.
The US Soccer Federation (USSF) cited a desire to maximize the impact of the tournament and ensure equal investment in both the men’s and women’s World Cups as the primary reasons for this strategic shift. This decision comes after FIFA announced a significant disparity in prize money allocated to the 2026 men’s World Cup compared to the 2023 Women’s World Cup.
While the 2026 men’s tournament boasts a combined prize money pool of $896 million, the 2023 Women’s World Cup saw a total of $152 million, with only $110 million designated as prize money for the players. This disparity has fueled calls for fairer financial treatment within the sport.
“Hosting a World Cup is a monumental undertaking,” stated USSF President Cindy Parlow Cone. “By shifting our focus to 2031, we gain valuable time to prepare and ensure a record-breaking Women’s World Cup that elevates the sport on a global scale.”
Cone further emphasized the commitment to equitable experiences for players, fans, and stakeholders, highlighting the potential for the 2031 tournament to serve as a catalyst for the continued growth of women’s football worldwide.
Both the USSF and the Mexican Football Federation (MFF) expressed confidence that their combined hosting experience, coupled with the existing infrastructure from the upcoming 2026 men’s World Cup, will position them to deliver an exceptional Women’s World Cup in 2031.
With the 2027 race now a two-horse contest, the international football community eagerly awaits the decision of the FIFA congress scheduled for May 17th in Bangkok, Thailand. The chosen host nation will have the distinct honor of organizing the ninth edition of the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
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