(Reuters) – South Africa has decided to withdraw their bid to host the women’s World Cup in 2027, as confirmed by the football association (SAFA) on Friday.
Although South Africa was initially one of the four bids confirmed by FIFA, the country has shifted its focus to preparing a bid for the 2031 tournament instead.
SAFA CEO Lydia Monyepao stated on the FA’s official website, “We felt that it was better to present a well-prepared bid for the 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cup and ensure we put our best foot forward, rather than producing a rushed presentation.”
The remaining candidates now vying to host the 2027 World Cup are a joint bid from Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands, one from Brazil, and another joint bid by Mexico and the United States.
The decision on the hosts for the tournament will be made by the FIFA Congress on May 17, 2024.
Spain was the winner of the 2023 tournament, which was co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand. Looking ahead, the U.S., Mexico, and Canada are set to co-host the men’s World Cup in 2026.
(Reporting by Tommy Lund in Gdansk; Editing by Ken Ferris)
