There will be 48 teams for the first time at the next Football World Cup in 2026, in the United States, Mexico and Canada. And evolution could be the same for the Women's World Cup, on the occasion of the 2031 edition.
FIFA, through its President Gianni Infantino, has already made it clear that it also wanted to expand the format of the Women's World Cup. And this is suitable for the American Federation, which submitted the only “valid candidacy” for the 2031 tournament.
FIFA is working on a new change in format for the World Cup.
“We fervently support the idea of a World Cup at 48 teams, US SOCCER CEO, JT Batson, said to certain American media. We believe it would be a great asset for the development of women's football. »»
A World Cup at 48 teams for women
JT Batson is explained: “One of the things we hear on the part of federations of federations around the world is that they see the female world cup as an opportunity for them, first, to participate in a World Cup and, secondly, to compete in a way which, probably, would be impossible on the male side. We therefore think that it would lead to a formidable stimulation of investments in women's and female football on a global scale. »»
The Women's World Cup increased from 16 to 24 teams in 2015, then to 32 teams in 2023. The 2027 edition will take place in Brazil, with still 32 training courses. The United States is in pole position for the 2031 World Cup, which they should organize with other Concacaf nations. JT Batson said the number of participating teams will determine which other countries will join the USA for this event. For 2035, the Women's World Cup should return to Europe, on the side of Great Britain.
