FIFA Women’s World Cup Teams to be increased from 32 to ….? Here’s everything you need to know

FIFA has revealed that the FIFA Women’s World Cup teams will be increased from 32 to 48 starting from the 2031 tournament. The FIFA Council approved the modifications unanimously, which will be implemented for the 2031 edition, anticipated to take place in the United States. This is the only proposal currently available, and it will be confirmed by FIFA in 2026. It will align the women’s competition with the men’s, which is set to include 48 international teams beginning in 2026 and is being hosted by the same three Concacaf countries.

Due to the increased number of FIFA Women’s World Cup teams, the tournament will adopt a 12-group format, resulting in an additional 40 matches, rising from 64 to 104, which will prolong the tournament by one week. “This is not merely about adding 16 more teams to participate in the FIFA Women’s World Cup, but also about progressing the women’s game overall by ensuring that more FIFA Member Associations can benefit from the tournament to enhance their women’s football frameworks from a comprehensive perspective,” stated FIFA president Gianni Infantino in a news release.

“The FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, the first where teams from all confederations achieved at least one victory and teams from five confederations progressed to the knockout stage, among numerous other records, established a new benchmark for global competitiveness. This decision guarantees that we continue the momentum of growing women’s football on a global scale.”

On Friday, FIFPRO also expressed its support for the swift expansion. “In principle, FIFPRO endorses the enlargement of the FIFA Women’s World Cup, as it mirrors the global advancement of the women’s game,” FIFPRO mentioned in a statement. “Nevertheless, player support relies on inclusive decision-making and collaborative planning that honors all stakeholders.

“It is vital that the worldwide development of women’s competitions coincides with enhanced labor conditions and the progress of players, as well as further development within the pyramid. This is the only route to genuine sustainability, growth, and advancement.”

FIFA Women’s World Cup Teams throughout history

The inaugural Women’s World Cup took place in 1991 and included 12 countries, before growing to 16 in 1999, then 24 in 2015, and 32 teams for the most recent tournament in 2023. None of the home nations have claimed the trophy since its introduction in 1991. Spain triumphed over England in the final of the latest edition of the tournament in 2023, which was held in Australia and New Zealand.

How many FIFA Women’s World Cup teams will be there in the next World Cup?

The 2027 edition, hosted in Brazil, will still feature 32 competing nations. England, whose team are known as The Lionesses, alongside Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, are poised to compete on home ground in 2035, with the UK considered the only “valid” candidate for the tournament.