The United States and Mexico have withdrawn their bid to host the 2027 Women’s World Cup. This decision was announced on Monday, before the FIFA vote in Bangkok scheduled for May 17.
In a joint statement, the football federations of both countries expressed their intention to focus on securing the 2031 World Cup instead. The decision leaves Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands with a joint bid and Brazil with a solo bid as the remaining contenders for the 2027 tournament.
FIFA announced earlier on Monday that for the first time, the 2027 Women’s World Cup host will be selected through an open vote at the upcoming FIFA Congress in Thailand.
The United States had hoped to host the women’s tournament for the third time following successful events in 1999 and 2003.
The cancellation of the USA-Mexico bid comes amidst a busy sports schedule for North America. The region prepares for the men’s 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The United States will host the expanded FIFA Club World Cup next year and this year’s 16-team Copa America.
USA Soccer indicated that aiming for 2031 offers more preparation time and opportunities to apply lessons from the 2026 men’s World Cup.
US Soccer President Cindy Parlow Cone stated, “Hosting a World Cup tournament is a huge undertaking. Additional preparation time allows us to maximize its global impact.”
She added that this shift aims to create a record-breaking Women’s World Cup in 2031, enhancing the women’s game domestically and worldwide.
Mexico Football Federation chief Ivar Sisniega supports the decision to aim for the 2031 Women’s World Cup, citing the potential for hosting the most successful tournament since the 2026 World Cup, ensuring superior infrastructure and robust fan support for the 2031 event.
