FIFA has announced that the Women’s World Cup will expand from 32 to 48 teams beginning with the 2031 edition.
The decision was unanimously approved by the FIFA Council on Friday, recognizing the significant progress women’s football has made globally.
The expanded tournament will feature a 12-group format, increasing the number of matches from 64 to 104 and extending the competition by an additional week.
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FIFA President Gianni Infantino highlighted that the expansion follows the success of the 2023 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, which was won by Spain. He explained, “This is not just about adding 16 more teams, but about taking the next steps to develop women’s football globally by giving more FIFA Member Associations the opportunity to benefit from the tournament and enhance their women’s football programs.”
Infantino added, “This decision ensures we continue the momentum in growing women’s football around the world.”