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Withdrawal of 2027 Women’s World Cup Bid by U.S. Soccer and Mexican Football Federation
On Monday, the joint bid from U.S. Soccer and the Mexican Football Federation for hosting the 2027 Women’s World Cup was officially withdrawn. The federations announced their decision, citing a shift in focus towards securing the 2031 Women’s World Cup instead. The U.S.-Mexico bid was one of three finalists for the 2027 World Cup, competing against bids from Brazil and a joint effort from Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands. The final decision on the 2027 host is set to be made by the FIFA Congress on May 17 in Bangkok, Thailand.
Reasoning Behind the Withdrawal
The decision to withdraw the bid stems from the desire to ensure optimal preparation and impact for hosting the Women’s World Cup. By shifting their focus to the 2031 edition, U.S. Soccer and the Mexican Football Federation aim to maximize the tournament’s reach and benefits globally. According to U.S. Soccer president Cindy Parlow Cone, the extended timeframe will allow for a record-breaking event in 2031 that can elevate the women’s game on a broader scale.
Considering the logistical challenges of organizing a World Cup, particularly with the upcoming hosting of the 2026 men’s World Cup in North America and the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, delaying the bid to 2031 offers a strategic advantage. It ensures resources are not stretched thin and provides ample time for meticulous planning and execution.
Commercial Positioning and Revenue Forecasts
In their bid book, the U.S.-Mexico joint bid projected a strong commercial stance, highlighting the potential to fill high-capacity stadiums and set attendance records. The forecast included expectations of attracting 4.5 million fans and generating $3 billion in revenue. Notably, the bid emphasized parity in investment between the men’s and women’s tournaments, underlining a commitment to equitable treatment and opportunities for female athletes.
FIFA’s allocation of prize money for the 2026 men’s World Cup and previous Women’s World Cups underscores the financial considerations involved in hosting such events. The organizers stressed the importance of leveraging the success of past tournaments, including the 2026 men’s World Cup set to be the largest in history, to build on the momentum and support for women’s football.
Legacy and Growth of Women’s Football
The decision to target the 2031 Women’s World Cup aligns with a broader vision of expanding the reach and impact of women’s football. By leveraging the infrastructure and expertise gained from hosting previous tournaments, the U.S. and Mexico aim to create a memorable and impactful event that contributes to the continued growth of the sport.
With the potential for new host countries such as Brazil to make history as the first South American nation to host a Women’s World Cup, the landscape of women’s football continues to evolve. Germany’s and Belgium’s involvement in the joint bid also reflects a commitment to showcasing top-tier competitions in Europe, building on their experience from previous World Cup editions.
In conclusion, the withdrawal of the 2027 Women’s World Cup bid by U.S. Soccer and the Mexican Football Federation represents a strategic shift towards prioritizing long-term sustainability and impact. By recalibrating their efforts towards securing the 2031 edition, the federations aim to set new standards for hosting women’s sporting events and advancing the growth of women’s football both domestically and internationally.
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