FIFA has revealed plans to expand the Women’s World Cup from 32 to 48 teams starting with the 2031 edition.
This decision was unanimously approved by the FIFA Council on Friday, recognizing the significant progress made in women’s football worldwide.
The expanded tournament will feature a 12-group format and will increase the number of matches from 64 to 104, extending the competition by one additional week.
FIFA President, Gianni Infantino, highlighted that the expansion is a direct result of the success of the 2023 Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, which saw Spain emerge as the champions.
“This is not just about having 16 more teams playing … but taking the next steps in relation to the women’s game in general by ensuring that more FIFA Member Associations have the chance to benefit from the tournament to develop their women’s football structures,” Infantino explained. “This decision ensures we are maintaining the momentum in terms of growing women’s football globally.”
