USA and Mexico emulate South Africa, drop out of race to host 2027 World Cup

The FIFA Women's World Cup trophy | Courtesy Imago

USA and Mexico emulate South Africa, drop out of race to host 2027 World Cup

Ayoola Kelechi 22:55 - 30.04.2024

The hosts of the 2026 Men's World Cup decided the time was not right to bid for the 2027 Women's World Cup

In a surprising turn of events, the United States Soccer Federation and the Mexican Football Federation have announced their withdrawal from the bidding process to host the 2027 Women's World Cup. The decision, revealed on Monday, reflects a strategic shift as both nations redirect their focus towards securing the hosting rights for the 2031 edition of the prestigious tournament.

Joint Bid Deferred in Favour of Long-Term Goals

The decision to withdraw the joint bid to host the 2027 Women's World Cup signals a strategic reevaluation by both national governing bodies. Instead of vying for the upcoming tournament, the United States and Mexico have opted to prioritise long-term planning, aiming to maximise the impact of hosting the tournament in 2031.

With the withdrawal of the USA-Mexico joint bid, the race to host the 2027 Women's World Cup has narrowed down significantly. As of now, Brazil and a joint bid from Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands stand as the remaining contenders for the 2027 event. The absence of two major footballing nations leaves an intriguing dynamic as FIFA prepares to choose the host nation on May 17.

Following in South Africa's Footsteps

U.S. Soccer President Cindy Parlow Cone emphasised the significance of strategic planning in the decision to withdraw from the 2027 bidding process. Cone highlighted the immense undertaking involved in hosting a World Cup tournament, stating that additional time for preparation would enable both countries to maximise the event's impact across the globe. This move underscores a commitment to ensuring a successful and impactful tournament experience.

The decision by the United States and Mexico to focus on the 2031 Women's World Cup mirrors a similar move by South Africa last November. South Africa withdrew its bid to host the 2027 tournament, opting to concentrate efforts on securing the hosting rights for the 2031 edition. This emerging trend suggests a strategic shift among bidding nations towards long-term planning and preparation for future FIFA tournaments.

Women's World Cup Building on Past Successes

The announcement comes on the heels of the successful co-hosting of the 2023 Women's World Cup by Australia and New Zealand, where Spain emerged victorious. Looking ahead, the United States, Mexico, and Canada are set to co-host the men's World Cup in 2026, further solidifying North America's position as a prominent hub for international football.

As the landscape of global football evolves, strategic decision-making and long-term planning have become paramount for national governing bodies. The withdrawal of the USA and Mexico from the bidding process for the 2027 Women's World Cup reflects a calculated approach aimed at ensuring a successful and impactful tournament experience in the years to come.

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