FIFA has officially confirmed that the Women’s World Cup will expand from 32 to 48 teams beginning with the 2031 edition, a transformative decision that aims to accelerate the global development of women’s soccer and increase representation across all continents.

The decision, unanimously approved by the FIFA Council, mirrors the men’s tournament format and will see a major increase in participation, competitiveness, and global exposure. The 2031 Women’s World Cup is expected to feature 104 matches, up from the current 64, and will include 12 groups of four teams. The top two teams from each group, along with the eight best third-placed teams, will advance to a 32-team knockout stage. 
 

FIFA President Gianni Infantino hailed the move as a “crucial step in growing women’s football,” emphasizing that the expansion will provide more nations with the opportunity to compete on the world stage. "This is not just a numbers game," Infantino said. "It’s about investing in the women’s game, giving it the platform it deserves, and reaching new corners of the world."

The expanded format comes off the back of a highly competitive 2023 tournament, where teams from every confederation won at least one match, and five different confederations reached the knockout rounds. That global competitiveness has helped validate FIFA’s decision to increase the tournament size.

The 2027 edition, to be hosted by Brazil, will be the last with 32 teams. In 2031, the United States is the current favorite to host the first expanded Women's World Cup, potentially marking their third time as host. Meanwhile, the United Kingdom has emerged as the sole bidder for the 2035 edition, proposing a joint-hosting plan involving England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Global players’ union FIFPRO welcomed the expansion but urged FIFA to include athletes in future decision-making and improve conditions to ensure sustainable growth. With more nations now having a chance to qualify, federations are being encouraged to increase funding and support for their women’s programs ahead of the qualification campaigns.

The expansion of the Women’s World Cup is expected to bring new audiences, more commercial opportunities, and significantly more visibility to women’s soccer. As the sport continues to break barriers and build momentum, the 2031 edition is poised to become the most inclusive and widely followed tournament in the competition’s history.

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