Sunderland is setting its sights on one of the biggest prizes in global sport, as the city quietly steps forward in a bid to become a host city for the 2035 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
00:00The UK is widely expected to secure the tournament, having submitted the only valid bid to FIFA.
00:06A formal announcement on that bid is anticipated by April 2026.
00:11Once confirmed, FIFA will begin selecting host cities, with a final list expected to be agreed around five years before the tournament kicks off.
00:19Sunderland already has recent experience hosting world-class sport.
00:23In August 2025, the Stadium of Light staged the opening game and ceremony of the Women's Rugby World Cup.
00:30A moment, city leaders say demonstrated Sunderland's capability, ambition and appetite for major events.
00:36The potential World Cup role was discussed at a meeting at Sunderland City Council's Cabinet on November 13.
00:43The item titled FIFA Women's World Cup 2035 was considered privately due to commercially sensitive details.
00:49Following the meeting, the council confirmed that members had discussed the city's possible role in the tournament and its position as a potential host city.
00:58Council leader Michael Morday said any involvement by Sunderland would depend on the UK's bid being successful and stressed that FIFA alone would decide which cities make the final shortlist.
01:10But he added he was proud that Sunderland was being considered for what he described as a truly historic event.
01:15Councillor Morday said major tournaments bring significant benefits from raising a city's profile to promoting the wider advantages of women's and girls' sport.
01:26FIFA is expected to require at least eight stadiums across the UK for the expanded 48-team tournament, with several cities already moving to stake their claim.
01:35Sunderland hopes the Stadium of Light will be among those chosen venues.
01:39Council leader Michael Morday said we're proud to be considered and we'll continue making the case for our city.
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