Glasgow launches its bid to host the 2035 Women’s World Cup

The city of Glasgow has launched a bid to host football matches during the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2035.

Hampden, Celtic Park and Ibrox all have the capacity to stage matches for the tournament, which is expected to see 48 teams participate.

FIFA will make a decision on the UK’s bid – the only bid to host the tournament – by April 2026.

It will then decide on the final selection of between 14 and 16 host cities in 2030.

Other cities hoping to host include Leeds, Birmingham and Nottingham.

Glasgow councilors have been asked to support the bid, which will be presented to the city management committee on Thursday.

It has been recommended that responsibility for organizing the event be handed over to Glasgow Life, which manages the council’s sports operations.

Glasgow City Council has committed to spending £6.2 million to host the competition.

The UK Government has pledged to cover 60% of the costs and the Scottish Government will cover 15%.

The council’s papers on the bid said: “Glasgow has the opportunity to be one of the host cities for the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2035, with three stadiums capable of meeting the hosting requirements (Hampden, Ibrox and Celtic Park).”

“As the national football stadium, Hampden is expected to be the first option put forward, although the choice of stadium is ultimately a FIFA decision.”

If the project is successful, Glasgow will also be asked to propose two suitable “central and iconic locations” to organize a FIFA Fan Festival, where people can watch public displays of matches as well as cultural entertainment.

The newspapers added: “The attraction of this high-profile women’s sporting event will continue to build the city’s vibrant and inclusive events portfolio and enhance the city’s reputation and status as a major sports and events city.

He added: “Building a series of football events will be key to building on its success, and developing engagement and audiences through events and activation in the lead-up to Euro 2028.”

The tournament will be held over 39 days.

It previously saw 32 teams competing. However, FIFA recently indicated that from 2031 the number will increase to 48 teams.

Billy Garrett, Culture, Tourism and Events Director at Glasgow Live, said: “Our city has a long-standing track record as an expert, reliable and welcoming host of major international events. Glasgow is also famous for its love of sport and football.

“We are therefore delighted to have been invited to consider whether the city could participate in the FA-led bid to secure the FIFA Women’s World Cup.”

The Scottish Football Association has been contacted for comment.

Report via Serving local democracy Journalist Sarah Healy.