Brazil's legendary Maracana stadium in Rio de Janeiro will stage both the opening game and the final of the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup, organisers announced on Thursday. The decision cements the venue's status as a global football landmark and underscores the tournament's historic return to South America for the first time.
Maracana to Host Showpiece Matches
The Maracana, which has a capacity of 78,838, will host the tournament opener on 24 June 2027 and the final on 25 July 2027. The announcement was made by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) and FIFA, confirming that the iconic stadium will be the centrepiece of the 32-team competition.
According to FIFA, the Maracana was chosen for its symbolic importance and its ability to host large-scale events. The stadium previously hosted the men's World Cup final in 1950 and 2014, as well as the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2016 Olympic Games.
Tournament Schedule and Venues
The 2027 Women's World Cup will be the first to feature 32 teams, expanded from 24 in 2023. The tournament will be played across 10 venues in Brazil, including the Maracana, the Arena Corinthians in Sao Paulo, and the Estadio Nacional in Brasilia. The group stage draw is scheduled for early 2027.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said: "The Maracana is a temple of football, and it is fitting that it will host the opening match and final of the first Women's World Cup in South America. This tournament will be a celebration of women's football and a showcase for Brazil's passion for the game."
Historic Milestone for Women's Football
The 2027 edition marks the first time the Women's World Cup will be held in South America, following previous tournaments in China, the United States, Sweden, Germany, Canada, France, Australia and New Zealand. Brazil was awarded hosting rights in May 2024, beating a joint bid from Belgium, Netherlands and Germany.
The CBF president, Ednaldo Rodrigues, said: "Hosting the Women's World Cup in Brazil is a dream come true. The Maracana will be the stage for unforgettable moments, and we are committed to delivering a tournament that inspires a new generation of female footballers."
Brazil's women's national team, currently ranked ninth in the world, will automatically qualify as hosts. The team has never won the Women's World Cup, finishing as runners-up in 2007.
