SAFA Withdraws 2027 Hosting Bid, Eyes 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cup
SAFA opts out of hosting the 2027 Women’s World Cup, focusing efforts on a robust bid for the 2031 tournament, amid concerns over the delayed allocation.

The South African Football Association (SAFA) announced on Saturday the withdrawal of their bid to host the Women’s World Cup in 2027. Instead, they plan to redirect efforts towards presenting a comprehensive bid for the 2031 tournament.
SAFA CEO Lydia Monyepao emphasized the decision, stating, “We believe it’s essential to present a thoroughly prepared bid for the 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cup, ensuring our best representation, rather than rushing through the process.”
Controversy has emerged regarding the delay in allocating the Women’s World Cup, which is just four years away. In contrast, hosts for the 2026, 2030, and 2034 men’s tournaments have already been declared: Canada, Mexico, and the United States for ’26, followed by Morocco, Portugal, Spain, Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay for ’30, and Saudi Arabia for ’34.
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Tumi Dlamini, chairperson of South Africa’s 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup Bid, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the bid, stating, “Football remains a unifying force globally, and investment in women’s sports should remain a priority in South Africa. The country’s commitment to women’s sports will and should continue to be a priority. We extend our best wishes to the remaining bidding nations.”
Despite South Africa’s withdrawal, the bidding process for the 2027 World Cup will persist, with FIFA expected to confirm the hosts in May 2024.
-IANS