A bold new chapter begins for global women’s football.
FIFA has officially approved the expansion of the FIFA Women’s World Cup from 32 to 48 teams starting in 2031, aligning the tournament structure with that of the men’s World Cup set for 2026.
The decision was ratified during a virtual meeting of the FIFA Council on Friday, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of the women’s game.
The New Format: 48 Teams, 104 Matches, Global Reach
From 2031, the Women’s World Cup will feature 12 groups of four teams, resulting in 104 matches — up from the current 64. The expanded format is expected to extend the tournament by one week and significantly increase global exposure, commercial potential, and development opportunities for emerging football nations.
Before the 2031 edition, the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil will retain the current 32-team format, which was introduced for the first time during the 2023 tournament in Australia and New Zealand.
“Not Just About More Teams” – FIFA’s Vision
FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasized that the expansion is about more than numbers.
“This is not just about having 16 more teams… but taking the next steps in relation to the women’s game in general. More member associations will now benefit from participating, accelerating holistic development across the sport.”
This aligns with FIFA’s broader strategic goal of growing the women’s game globally, supporting infrastructure, visibility, and investment in national programs.
Momentum Backed by Performance
FIFA’s decision comes off the back of a highly competitive 2023 Women’s World Cup, where:
- Teams from all six confederations won at least one match
- Five confederations had teams reach the knockout stage
- Several new teams challenged traditional powerhouses, showcasing rising parity
This widespread competitiveness debunks concerns that a 48-team format would produce lopsided results. Instead, it suggests the global game is closing the gap — and fast.
United States Likely to Host 2031 Edition
The USA is the sole bidder for the 2031 tournament, positioning it to host the Women’s World Cup for the third time(after 1999 and 2003). Meanwhile, the United Kingdom has submitted the only bid for 2035. While official ratification is pending, both bids reflect the rising political and commercial capital being placed on women’s football.
Stakeholder Reactions: Expansion Must Match Support
Global players’ union FIFPRO welcomed the move, stating:
“The expansion demonstrates the growth of women’s soccer. But players’ support depends on inclusive decision-making… Global development must go hand in hand with improved labour conditions and pathways throughout the pyramid.”
As the game grows, so too must its foundations — from player welfare to development leagues, coaching infrastructure, and grassroots systems.
What This Means for the Future
This expansion is more than just a tournament restructure. It signals FIFA’s long-term intent to elevate women’s football to equal prominence. The shift presents massive opportunities for federations, sponsors, broadcasters, and fans to engage with the game at scale.
In a sport historically defined by underinvestment in its women’s arm, the 2031 expansion could become a turning point — a generational inflection in football’s global narrative.
IMAGE – AFP
