sports
Potential US host cities for 2031 Women's World Cup games mull withdrawal over Fifa concerns
Bid approval delayed by reported government holdups
TL;DR
- US cities are considering withdrawing from hosting the 2031 Women's World Cup due to concerns about FIFA's financial demands and stadium access.
- Some cities are exploring bids for the 2031 Rugby World Cup, finding World Rugby's terms more commercially favorable and less demanding.
- FIFA has delayed confirming the 2031 Women's World Cup hosts, citing a need for an extraordinary congress, and has not yet received mandatory US government guarantees.
- Host cities for the current men's World Cup have experienced financial tensions with FIFA over security costs, while FIFA retains broadcasting, sponsorship, and ticket income.
- World Rugby plans to finance its event and share profits/losses with USA Rugby, unlike FIFA's approach with Women's World Cup hosts.