Manchester United’s Old Trafford Eyes 2035 Women’s World Cup
Historic Venue Among Proposed Stadiums
In an exciting development for football fans, Manchester United’s legendary Old Trafford stadium has been included in the UK’s bid to host the 2035 Women’s World Cup. This iconic venue, often referred to as the “Theatre of Dreams,” is one of 22 stadiums proposed across the United Kingdom, which also encompasses England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The joint bid is notable not only for its ambition but also for the potential it holds in elevating women’s football across the region.
Current Planning Status and Future Prospects
While the redevelopment of Old Trafford is still in the planning stages, its inclusion in the bid is a significant gesture. The stadium had previously been overlooked for the 2028 Men’s European Championship, raising questions about its future as a world-class venue. However, even if redevelopment plans stall, Old Trafford will still be eligible to host matches in its current form, ensuring that its storied history can continue to play a role in major international tournaments.
The UK’s bid is unopposed and is expected to be ratified by a FIFA congress vote in 2026, setting the stage for what could be a transformative event for women’s football in the UK. This tournament would mark the second time that a World Cup has been held in these nations, the first being the men’s tournament in 1966.
A Broader Picture of Stadiums
The ambitious bid features a total of 22 venues, with 16 located in England, three in Wales, two in Scotland, and one in Northern Ireland. Other notable stadiums include Wembley, which is likely to host the final, and up-and-coming facilities like Birmingham City’s planned new stadium. This diverse selection of venues highlights the UK’s commitment to showcasing women’s football on a grand stage, ensuring that fans across the region can engage with the tournament.
Voices of Support for the Bid
Leaders from football associations across the UK have expressed enthusiasm for the bid, emphasizing its potential to catalyze growth in women’s and girls’ football. A joint statement from the CEOs of The FA, Irish FA, Scottish FA, and FA of Wales highlighted the bid’s ambition to create a lasting legacy for the sport. This sentiment was echoed by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who noted the inspiring effect of the Lionesses’ success on young girls and the broader community.
Scottish women’s national team coach Melissa Andreatta also weighed in, pointing out that hosting the World Cup would have a long-lasting impact on participation and investment in women’s football. Her comments underscore the broader implications this tournament could have for equality and growth within the sport.
Looking Ahead
As the prospect of the 2035 Women’s World Cup draws closer, the excitement surrounding the UK bid continues to build. The inclusion of historic venues like Old Trafford not only serves to honor the rich footballing heritage of the region but also paves the way for a future where women’s football can thrive. With strong backing from football authorities and government leaders alike, this bid could be a turning point for the game in the UK and beyond, ushering in a new era for women’s sports.
Reviewed by: News Desk
Edited with AI assistance + Human research