FIFA Expands Women’s World Cup to 48 Teams from 2031 in Historic Vote

SME News UK. In a landmark decision aimed at accelerating the global growth of women’s football, the FIFA Council has unanimously voted to expand the FIFA Women’s World Cup from 32 to 48 teams, starting with the 2031 tournament.The expanded format will feature 104 matches across 12 groups, representing a significant increase from the 64 games played in the 2023 edition. This bold move is expected to offer greater representation and opportunity to emerging footballing nations while boosting development at all levels of the women’s game.FIFA President Gianni Infantino hailed the decision as a pivotal step in growing the sport worldwide. “This is a chance for many nations to benefit from the global spotlight and further invest in their women’s football structures,” Infantino said. “We are committed to maintaining the momentum of progress in women’s football.”The 2031 tournament—the first under the new structure—will be co-hosted by the United States and Mexico. The UK nations of England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales are slated to host the 2035 edition, by which time the expanded format will be fully in place.Spain are the current reigning champions, having defeated England in the final of the 2023 Women’s World Cup. The next edition of the tournament will be held in Brazil in 2027.Global players’ union FIFPro welcomed the expansion, while emphasizing the need for inclusive and sustainable planning. “This reflects the growing popularity and reach of the women’s game,” a FIFPro spokesperson said. “But true progress depends on collaborative decision-making, better labour conditions, and investment at all tiers of the sport.”As FIFA continues its mission to elevate women’s football, the expansion marks a historic commitment to inclusivity, opportunity, and long-term development.