Irish FA Chief Celebrates Women’s World Cup Approval

Response to FIFA Women’s World Cup 2035 Bid Rumors by IFA Chief

Patrick Nelson, the Chief Executive of the Irish Football Association, expressed enthusiasm regarding the announcement that the UK is to host the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2035.

During a recent statement, FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed that the UK’s expression of interest to organize the prestigious event is the “only valid bid” received.

Last month, the football associations from England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland came together to submit a joint expression of interest to host the tournament across their nations.

In response to Infantino’s remarks, Nelson stated, “It’s wonderful to hear that the home nations are the sole bidders for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2035. We are eager to host matches during the tournament and contributing to what promises to be an incredible event.”

He acknowledged that considerable work remains ahead in collaboration with partners to realize this vision, emphasizing that this will be a fantastic opportunity to showcase the rich offerings of Northern Ireland and Belfast.

According to FIFA’s rotation guidelines, the 2035 tournament must take place in either Europe or Africa.

Recently, Rafael Louzan, the president of the Spanish federation, mentioned their efforts in preparing a joint bid with Portugal and Morocco. However, the deadline for submissions passed on Monday, making it clear that the UK’s proposal is the only one submitted for 2035. The United States is also set to host the World Cup in 2031.

Infantino noted, “I can confirm that we received one bid for 2031 and one valid bid for 2035 as part of the bidding process.” He further explained, “The 2031 bid is from the United States of America along with some other Concacaf members, and the 2035 bid comes from Europe and the home nations.”

He added, “There’s a definite opportunity for the Women’s World Cup to shine in 2031 and 2035, supporting the positive trajectory of women’s football.”

Empowering Women’s Football

Conrad Kirkwood, President of the Irish FA, remarked, “We have witnessed significant growth in women’s football recently. Initiatives such as our new women’s and girls’ strategy emphasize this development. The chance to bring the pinnacle of women’s football to our shores, in collaboration with partners from the home nations, is something to celebrate.”

Angela Platt, the Irish FA’s Director of Women’s Football, shared, “This is an exhilarating time for women’s football in our nation. Such news will motivate even more young girls and boys to engage with the sport. Our new strategy, ‘Together We Thrive: Elevating the Game for Everyone,’ aims to create a clear pathway for progression in the game, bringing a renewed sense of momentum beneficial to everyone.”

Northern Ireland’s senior women’s team manager, Tanya Oxtoby, expressed her views, stating, “From my experience in elite-level management and play, co-hosting the World Cup represents the pinnacle of our sport. I am thrilled at the prospect of what Northern Ireland can contribute to the tournament, both on and off the field.”