FIFA selects eight cities for the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil

Brazil is set to host the 2027 Women’s World Cup, marking the first time the tournament will take place in South America. FIFA announced the decision in early 2025, confirming eight cities as the official host venues for this prestigious event. The chosen cities include Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Belo Horizonte, Brasília, Fortaleza, Porto Alegre, Recife, and Salvador. Notably, all these cities were part of the 2014 Men’s World Cup, showcasing a commitment to utilize infrastructure that has already proven effective for large-scale events. The tournament will run from June 24 to July 25, 2027, featuring 32 teams competing across 64 matches. This edition will represent the second time the women’s pool has expanded to include 32 teams, following the newly introduced format at the 2023 Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed excitement about bringing the tournament to Brazil, emphasizing the nation’s vibrant culture and the opportunity to inspire young female athletes. He mentioned the energy and warmth that Brazil offers, reflecting on samba, frevo, and stunning beaches. The inclusion of the iconic Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, which has held numerous significant matches, also underlines the importance of the event, as it's recognized as a crucial venue for football in the country. Two prominent figures in women's football, Marta and Formiga, participated in the announcement, lending their voices to the excitement surrounding the tournament. Formiga, who had an extensive career with the national team, highlighted the potential impact on local talent, inspiring future generations of female footballers. The selection process for the host cities began in August 2024, with twelve candidate cities bidding to be part of the tournament, although Curitiba, Manaus, Natal, and Belém were not selected in the end. The focus on coastal cities is seen as a strategy to create a more concentrated geographical footprint compared to the widely spread locations of the previous men’s World Cup, which faced criticism. As the anticipation builds toward 2027, the selection of host cities reveals a clear intention to not only celebrate women’s football but also to create a positive legacy within the host communities. The upcoming tournament will be the last with 32 teams before the expansion to 48 teams in the 2031 edition, making this event a pivotal turning point in women’s global football. Jill Ellis, FIFA's Chief Football Officer, emphasized the profound impact this tournament will have on advancing women's football in Brazil and worldwide, promoting visibility and growth in the sport. Overall, the 2027 Women’s World Cup presents an unparalleled opportunity for cultural exchange, sportsmanship, and the elevation of women's football on an international stage.