Brazil has been selected to host the 2027 Women’s World Cup, triumphing over a joint bid by Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany (BNG).
This marks the first time a Women’s World Cup will be held in South America.
In a landmark decision at FIFA’s congress in Bangkok on Friday, Brazil secured the hosting rights by an open vote, with member associations voting 119 to 78 in favor of Brazil. This is the first time the hosting rights were decided by an open vote, emphasizing transparency in the selection process.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino congratulated Brazil on their successful bid: “We will have the best World Cup in Brazil. Many thanks as well to the BNG bid, who have been fantastic.”
Despite both bids meeting hosting criteria, Brazil scored higher on technical aspects such as stadiums, accommodation, fan zones, and transport, as noted in FIFA’s bid evaluation report.
Earlier in the bidding process, the United States and Mexico withdrew their joint bid in April, aiming to focus on the 2031 tournament. South Africa also withdrew in November.
Ednaldo Rodrigues, president of the Brazilian Football Confederation, expressed his excitement: “We knew we would be celebrating a victory for South American women’s soccer and for women. You can be sure, with no vanity, we will accomplish the best World Cup for women.”
Valesca Araujo, operational manager of Brazil’s bid team, added: “We are working on a transformation, not only for the country but for the continent.”
Brazil has previously hosted the men’s World Cup in 1950 and 2014, demonstrating its capability to host major international tournaments. The 2027 Women’s World Cup will follow the 32-team format used in 2023 in Australia and New Zealand, where Spain emerged as champions by defeating England in the final.
News24 Nigeria reports that the Women’s World Cup has previously been hosted by China, Sweden, the United States, Germany, Canada, and France, adding Brazil to an illustrious list of host nations.
This announcement underscores Brazil’s commitment to promoting women’s soccer and enhancing the sport’s infrastructure in South America. With preparations underway, Brazil is poised to deliver an unforgettable tournament in 2027.