New Old Trafford Included in UK’s Bid to Host the 2035 Women’s World Cup

Manchester United’s ambitious plan to build a new Old Trafford has taken a major step forward after the proposed stadium was officially included in the United Kingdom’s bid to host the 2035 Women’s World Cup. The redevelopment is still at the planning stage, but football authorities say the venue will remain part of the bid whether it is upgraded or used in its current form.

The joint bid from England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland faces no opposition and is expected to be confirmed in 2026 at a FIFA congress. If successful, it would mark the second time a World Cup has been held in the home nations, following the historic 1966 men’s tournament hosted by England.

Old Trafford’s inclusion is especially notable because the stadium was not considered for the UK and Ireland’s successful bid for the 2028 men’s European Championship. The potential rebuild has generated excitement among supporters, who hope the project will deliver a modern, world-class venue while preserving the legacy of one of football’s most iconic stadiums.

The bid outlines 22 stadiums across the UK, including Wembley, which is likely to host the final, and Birmingham City’s planned new Sports Quarter Stadium. Sixteen venues are in England, three in Wales, two in Scotland, and one in Northern Ireland. If selected, FIFA will narrow the list to 15 final stadiums, as required for the expanded Women’s World Cup format. Beginning in 2031, the tournament will feature 48 teams and 104 matches played across 39 days, mirroring the structure used in the men’s competition.

Football associations across the home nations have emphasised the transformative potential of hosting the event. In a joint statement, the CEOs of The FA, the Irish FA, the Scottish FA, and the FA of Wales said a Women’s World Cup on UK soil could “turbo charge the women’s and girls’ game both in the UK and globally”. They highlighted the bid’s commitment to leaving a long-term legacy, from increased participation to improved footballing infrastructure.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer also endorsed the bid, saying the Lionesses’ achievements in recent years have inspired a generation of young girls. Hosting the tournament, he added, would bring economic benefits to cities across the UK and unite fans from around the world in celebrating women’s football.

Scotland head coach Melissa Andreatta said the impact would extend well beyond the tournament itself. She believes hosting could drive greater investment, participation, and equality at every level of the sport. England head coach Sarina Wiegman echoed this view, stressing that the event would uplift not just the game but women’s opportunities across society.

With expanding global interest in women’s football and the success of recent tournaments, the 2035 World Cup is expected to be one of the largest sporting events in the world. The UK’s bid seeks to position the home nations as leaders in the next era of the women’s game, offering modern venues, strong fan support and a clear commitment to long term growth.