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FIFA will expand the Women’s World Cup from 32 to 48 teams starting in 2031, increasing global opportunities and potentially easing qualification for teams like South Africa’s Banyana Banyana.
FIFA has confirmed that the Women’s World Cup will expand to 48 teams starting in 2031, mirroring the format of the men’s tournament and offering a significant boost to emerging nations, including Banyana Banyana.
The decision was unanimously approved by the FIFA Council, which cited the “remarkable recent strides made by women’s football across the world” as a key reason for the expansion.
The revamped format will feature 12 groups and 104 matches, extending the tournament by one week. FIFA says this move ensures more Member Associations will gain valuable experience and visibility on the world stage.
Gianni Infantino, FIFA President, emphasized that the change isn’t just about numbers. “It’s about taking the next steps in relation to the women’s game... to develop their women’s football structures,” he said, reflecting on the historic success of the 2023 edition in Australia and New Zealand.
He noted that the last World Cup saw teams from every confederation win matches and five confederations reach the knockout stages, setting “a new standard for global competitiveness.”
The 2027 tournament in Brazil will remain at 32 teams. However, for 2031, the United States is the sole candidate to host, while the UK, including 2023 finalists England, is bidding for 2035. FIFA has not yet officially ratified hosts for these future editions.
Meanwhile, the FIFA Council also adopted new anti-racism measures, including increased fines and a requirement for federations to align with FIFA’s Disciplinary Code. FIFA will also have the power to appeal sanctions to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, similar to doping cases.
In other decisions, FIFA approved support for Afghan women footballers, announcing the creation of an Afghan Women’s Refugee Team (AWRT). Infantino called it a “landmark initiative”, adding: “FIFA is committed to giving every girl the possibility to play football.”