The President of the Brazilian Football Confederation, Ednaldo Rodrigues, celebrated the decision as a “victory for Latin American football and women’s football in Latin America.” Brazil, the home of women’s football legend Marta, outscored its European rival in FIFA’s evaluation report, securing the hosting rights for the 2027 Women’s World Cup.
FIFA inspectors highlighted the significant impact that hosting the tournament in South America would have on women’s football in the region. Brazil’s bid includes 10 stadiums that were used during the 2014 Men’s World Cup, with the iconic Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro set to host both the opening match and the final. However, there are plans to refurbish some venues, particularly the Amazonia Stadium in Manaus, which has seen little use over the past decade.
Unlike their male counterparts, who have won five World Cups, Brazil’s women’s team has never lifted the trophy and exited the group stage in 2023. Last year’s tournament set new records, generating $570 million in commercial revenue. Despite concerns that expanding the tournament from 24 to 32 teams would dilute the quality of play, the event attracted over 1.4 million fans and delivered numerous surprises on the pitch.
Gone were the lopsided scorelines that marred previous tournaments, indicating the growing standard of women’s football. Seven teams achieved their first World Cup victories, and traditional powerhouses like the United States and Germany, who had won six of the previous eight tournaments, were eliminated early.
However, the 2023 World Cup did not end without controversy. The aftermath of the final in Sydney, where Spain defeated England 1-0, was overshadowed by an incident involving Spanish Football Federation chief Luis Rubiales. Rubiales sparked outrage by forcibly kissing midfielder Jenni Hermoso during the medal ceremony, leading to his prosecution for sexual assault.
As Brazil prepares to host the 2027 Women’s World Cup, the spotlight will be on the nation’s ability to elevate the tournament and further advance the global standing of women’s football.