Birmingham has been officially confirmed as one of the proposed host cities alongside Aston Villa FC and Birmingham City FC, in the UK’s bid to stage the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2035.
The bid features 16 host cities and 22 stadiums across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland and represents a commitment to delivering the most inclusive, inspiring and globally-connected FIFA Women’s World Cup.
If the bid is successful, the World Cup would bring thousands of visitors to Birmingham, boosting the local economy and creating jobs, skills and volunteering opportunities for citizens. Initial assessments indicate a £65m socio-economic benefit to the city with 300,000 visitors excepted.
Councillor Sharon Thompson, Deputy Leader of Birmingham City Council said:
“As the proud host city of the 2022 Commonwealth Games as well as hosting the upcoming ICC T20 Women’s World Cup 2026, European Athletics Championships 2026 and UEFA EURO 2028, Birmingham has a proven track record of successful selection for and delivery of mega sporting events.
We are delighted to be part of the UK’s bid to host the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2035 and to have the opportunity to showcase our Brummie warmth and hospitality to the world.
If chosen we will work hard to realise the opportunities this present for our residents, communities and businesses.
Sitting at the heart of the UK, with excellent transport links and with two stadium options, the historic Villa Park and The Powerhouse, BCFC’s recently revealed new stadium, Birmingham has a very strong proposition for FIFA to consider.”
If the bid is successful, FIFA will make the final selection of the stadia that will be part of the tournament.
It will be the biggest single-sport event in UK history and, if chosen, will give Birmingham and the West Midlands another unique opportunity to use a mega sporting event to drive economic growth and prosperity, alongside further strengthening grassroots girls’ and women’s football provision, demonstrating there is a place for everyone in women’s football.
