FIFA Women's World Cup: South Africa Withdraws From 2027 Bidding, Turns Attention To 2031

FIFA Women's World Cup: South Africa Withdraws From 2027 Bidding, Turns Attention To 2031 

Sampson Adedeji

South Africa has announced its withdrawal from bidding for the hosting right of the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The country football body on Friday evening released a statement explaining the reason for their withdrawal and how they are focussing on the 2031 edition of the competition.

"South Africa wishes to announce that the country is withdrawing from the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup Bid and is considering bidding for the 2031 tournament when FIFA announces the call for countries to bid for the event.

The time frame for developing the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup bid has been challenging. This does not diminish our commitment to women’s football and has instead strengthened our commitment to produce a strong South African women’s team for 2031, and a compelling bid for the same tournament.

We were very pleased by the support and advice from the Minister and Deputy Minister of Sport when they encouraged us to work towards preparing a future bid, and in this regard, we felt it was better to regroup and present a well-prepared bid for the 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cup", the statement read.