New Delhi: In a historic move aimed at fuelling the rapid rise of women’s football across the globe, FIFA has confirmed that the Women’s World Cup will expand from 32 to 48 teams starting from 2031. The football governing body said its Council approved the proposal in a virtual meeting on Friday.
With this expansion, the tournament format will change to accommodate 12 groups instead of the current structure. The number of matches will jump from 64 to 104 and the tournament will be extended by an additional week. The change means more nations will have the opportunity to compete on the world’s biggest stage bringing diverse footballing cultures to the forefront.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino believes the move will serve as a major boost to the sport. He said, “This decision ensures we are maintaining the momentum in terms of growing women’s football globally.” He added, “More nations will now have the chance to benefit from the tournament and build strong women’s football programs at home.”
FIFA Council takes landmark decisions on the future of the FIFA Women’s World Cup™️ and on the fight against racism
🗞️➡️https://t.co/LoZkQ2Ypzi#FootballUnitesTheWorld pic.twitter.com/FE3BeStel8
— FIFA Media (@fifamedia) May 9, 2025
Host of the 2035 edition
Adding to the excitement is the prospect of the United Kingdom hosting the 2035 Women’s World Cup. England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland are all expected to be involved, giving the home nations a golden opportunity to perform in front of their own fans. While none of them have lifted the trophy since the Women’s World Cup began in 1991, the home support and familiarity could be a game-changer.
England’s Lionesses, who came agonisingly close in 2023 by reaching the final in Australia and New Zealand before falling short against Spain, could have another shot at glory this time on home soil.
Player’s union FIFPRO statement
While the decision has been broadly welcomed, there are still some concerns from within the football community. Players’ union Fifpro responded to the announcement by supporting the expansion “in principle” but highlighted the need for more inclusive planning.
FIFPRO said, “It reflects the global growth of the women’s game but the support of players hinges on decision-making that involves all stakeholders. True sustainability will only come if we also improve working conditions and invest in the lower levels of the sport.”
Their message is clear that the growth must be holistic. Without attention to the grassroots and player welfare, expansion alone won’t be enough to support the game’s long-term future.
Afghan women’s refugee team approved
In another powerful gesture, FIFA has also given the green light to the women’s refugee team from Afghanistan. This squad will consist of Afghan women footballers who have secured refugee status in other countries. Gianni Infantino labelled the same a “landmark” moment. The team will be allowed to compete under FIFA’s supervision for a one-year pilot period. Depending on the outcome, the program could continue beyond the trial phase.
This comes in response to the Taliban regime banning women’s sport in Afghanistan. The last time the Afghanistan women’s national team played an official match was in 2018. FIFA’s initiative provides these players a platform they were denied in their own country.
FIFA also introduced a revised disciplinary code focused on combating racism. The maximum fine for racial abuse has now been increased to £4.51 million. A three-step anti-discrimination protocol has also been made mandatory for all confederations, taking a strong step toward making football a safer and more inclusive space.
FIFA expands Women’s World Cup to 48 teams from 2031, with a new 12-group format, UK’s 2035 bid, and historic inclusion of Afghan refugee team. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
