FIFA confirms host cities for 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

FIFA has officially announced the Brazilian cities designated to host the 2027 Women’s World Cup, which will feature matches in various stadiums, including Mineirão in Belo Horizonte, National Stadium in Brasilia, Castelão Arena in Fortaleza, Beira-Rio in Porto Alegre, Pernambuco Arena in Recife, Maracanã in Rio de Janeiro, Fonte Nova Arena in Salvador, and Itaquera Arena in São Paulo.

While the specific venues for the opening and closing matches remain undisclosed, FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasized the vibrant culture and hospitality of Brazil, promising an unforgettable experience for fans and participants alike. The selection process for host cities began in August 2024, with FIFA teams evaluating the infrastructure of 12 candidate cities, and operational planning is set to begin soon as FIFA experts prepare to engage with the chosen cities.

Additionally, the United Kingdom (UK) is gearing up to propose a joint bid for the 2035 Women’s World Cup, with the football associations of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland expressing their intent to co-host the event.

Africa has not hosted the tournament despite South Africa bidding for the 2027 edition before capitulating to Brazil’s bid.

Nigeria remained the only African country to have participated in every edition of the global women’s football Mundial since its inception in 1991, and also had the continent’s best record which was reaching the quarter final in 1999.

After reaching the Round of 16 and making it past the group stage in consecutive editions for the first time, the Super Falcons hope to continue their unblemished participation at the World Cup in 2027 with the aim of becoming the first team from Africa to reach the semi-final.

Qualification for semi semi-finals at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco will sal their place at the next World Cup.