Wembley Emerges as FA's Favourite for 2035 World Cup Final
The Football Association has positioned Wembley Stadium as its preferred choice to host the 2035 Women's World Cup final, dealing a significant blow to Manchester United's aspirations of showcasing their planned new stadium in the tournament's climax. This decision comes as the United Kingdom prepares to submit its unopposed bid to FIFA ahead of Friday's deadline for complete hosting proposals.
Stadium Showdown: Wembley Versus Old Trafford Replacement
Despite Manchester United's widely reported interest in hosting the prestigious final at their proposed 100,000-capacity stadium, the FA's leadership in the bidding process has seen them favour the national stadium. The £2 billion project to replace Old Trafford, announced in March, has yet to see construction begin, with funding details still unresolved.
FA chief executive Mark Bullingham confirmed the preference in a previously unbroadcast interview with Sky News earlier this year, stating: "It's a FIFA decision and our full expectation is Wembley will host the final." He emphasised that while new stadiums like United's would feature in tournament plans, Wembley represents the strongest setting for the ultimate match.
Comprehensive UK-Wide Hosting Strategy
The 2035 bid represents a joint effort across the United Kingdom, involving Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales alongside England. This collaborative approach follows Northern Ireland's disappointment in missing out on hosting matches for the men's Euro 2028 due to stadium suitability issues.
Potential host venues include:
- Wembley Stadium (London)
- Manchester United's proposed new Old Trafford replacement
- Birmingham City's planned 62,000-seat stadium, with construction expected within five years
The tournament will mark a historic first for England, which has never hosted the Women's World Cup despite staging the women's European Championship in both 2003 and 2022. The 2035 event will feature an expanded format of 48 teams, aligning with recent changes to the men's tournament structure.
FIFA is scheduled to publish its evaluation of all bids in the first half of next year, with formal ratification of both the 2031 and 2035 hosts to follow. The 2031 Women's World Cup is set to be held in the United States.
