In a landmark move to accelerate the growth of womens football globally, FIFA has announced that the FIFA Womens World Cup will be expanded from 32 to 48 teams starting with the 2031 edition.The decision follows extensive consultations with continental confederations and key stakeholders, marking a significant step in the evolution of the tournament.It mirrors the expansion of the mens World Cup, which will also feature 48 teams beginning in 2026.Since its inception in 1991 with just 12 teams, the Womens World Cup has steadily grown – expanding to 16 teams in 1999, 24 in 2015, and 32 in 2023.The 2023 edition was widely praised for its competitiveness and global reach, with teams from all six confederations winning at least one match and five advancing to the knockout stage.The new 48-team format will consist of 12 groups of four, increasing the number of matches from 64 to 104 and extending the tournament by one week.Hosting requirements for the 2031 and 2035 editions have been revised to accommodate this expansion, ensuring broader visibility and greater opportunities for fans and players alike.FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasized the strategic importance of the expansion, saying:”This is not just about having 16 more teams playing in the FIFA Womens World Cup. Its about taking the next step for the womens game globally – giving more FIFA Member Associations the opportunity to benefit from the tournament and develop their womens football structures holistically.”He further highlighted the success of the 2023 tournament, noting.”The FIFA Womens World Cup 2023 set a new benchmark for global competitiveness. Teams from every confederation won matches, and five confederations reached the knockout stages. This expansion ensures we maintain that momentum and continue growing the womens game worldwide.”In the same meeting, the FIFA Council also approved the FIFA Strategy for Action for Afghan Womens Football, which includes establishing the Afghan Womens Refugee Team (AWRT).The initiative empowers the FIFA administration to facilitate and oversee the teams operations, enabling it to begin activities as soon as possible.”This is a landmark initiative,” Infantino said. “FIFA is committed to giving every girl the opportunity to play football.”FIFA will continue engaging with stakeholders to ensure the implementation of these changes reflects the needs and aspirations of the global football community.
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