Concerns Mount Over Host Cities for the 2031 Women’s World Cup

Several American cities that are potential hosts for the 2031 Women’s World Cup are reconsidering their bids due to dissatisfaction with FIFA's management of the upcoming men's World Cup. Reports indicate that cities such as Chicago and Pittsburgh have already opted out of the bidding process, primarily due to concerns over FIFA's financial demands and the perceived lack of commercial freedom compared to the Rugby World Cup. The U.S. Soccer Federation has identified 40 stadiums as potential venues for the Women’s World Cup, while World Rugby has expressed interest from 27 cities for its tournament, with 20 stadiums overlapping between the two events.

The GuardianStudy: Concerns Around International Travel to U.S. for World Cup – SportsTravel

A source involved in discussions with both FIFA and World Rugby noted that the latter offers significantly greater commercial freedom and fewer demands regarding stadium access. This has led some cities to believe that hosting the Rugby World Cup may be more profitable, given the demographic profile of rugby supporters who are perceived to spend more during events. FIFA's insistence that host cities cover security and safety costs while retaining income from broadcasting and sponsorship has created tensions, prompting cities to weigh their options carefully.

The Guardian

FIFA recently postponed the announcement of the 2031 World Cup hosts, originally scheduled for the end of April, to an unspecified date later this year. The only bid currently under consideration comes from a joint proposal involving the U.S., Mexico, Costa Rica, and Jamaica. The U.S. government has yet to provide FIFA with necessary guarantees regarding visas, tax, safety, and security, which are typically required before the bidding process concludes.

The Guardian

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, new research from the U.S. Travel Association reveals that international visitors are expected to spend significantly more than average during their stay, with many planning to explore beyond major cities. However, concerns about safety and public policy have emerged, with a notable percentage of potential visitors worried about increased visa fees and social media requirements for travel authorization. The U.S. Travel Association is advocating for Congress to address these issues to ensure a smooth experience for international fans.

Study: Concerns Around International Travel to U.S. for World Cup – SportsTravel

Critics have pointed to ongoing issues related to public transport and the cancellation of official Fan Fests in several cities, which were intended to enhance the tournament experience. The resolution of a long-standing dispute over security costs at Gillette Stadium in Massachusetts highlights the complexities involved in hosting large-scale events. World Rugby has committed to financing its tournament and sharing profits or losses with USA Rugby, contrasting sharply with FIFA's approach.

The Guardian

U.S. Soccer CEO JT Batson emphasized the strong demand for hosting the Women’s World Cup in 2031, while FIFA has stated that it will convene an extraordinary congress before the end of 2026 to discuss the bids for both the 2031 and 2035 tournaments. As cities continue to deliberate their participation, the outcome of these discussions will significantly impact the future of women's football in the U.S.

The Guardian

• “The demand is there. The fans are coming. Now it’s time for Washington to make sure we are ready to win.” — Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association

Study: Concerns Around International Travel to U.S. for World Cup – SportsTravel

• “Fifa declined to comment beyond referring to a statement on the 2031 and 2035 World Cup bidding processes last month: “Fifa will convene an extraordinary congress before the end of 2026.” — FIFA Statement on World Cup bidding processes.

The Guardian