Brighton & Hove City Council has confirmed plans to submit an official bid to become a host city for the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2035. The proposal was approved at a cabinet meeting at Hove Town Hall, signalling the city’s intention to join the UK-wide effort to bring the tournament to British soil.
If successful, Brighton & Hove would once again welcome world-class women’s football to the south coast, following its highly praised role as a host venue during the UEFA Women’s Euro 2022.
A Major Opportunity for the City
The 2035 Women’s World Cup is expected to feature an expanded 48-team format, requiring at least eight host stadiums across the country. Brighton & Hove City Council says hosting matches would bring significant economic and cultural benefits — from increased tourism and global visibility to a strengthened legacy for women and girls’ sport in the region.
A council report highlighted that during the 2022 Women’s Euros, Brighton delivered the highest Gross Value Added (GVA) impact of all host cities, with an estimated £8 million generated for the local economy. Local leaders believe that replicating — and potentially surpassing — this impact is a realistic prospect if the city secures World Cup fixtures.
Leadership Support
Councillor Bella Sankey, Leader of Brighton & Hove City Council, said the city is “ready to showcase once again the power of elite women’s sport,” emphasising its role in boosting civic pride, encouraging participation in football, and drawing international attention to Brighton’s cultural vibrancy.
Deputy Leader Jacob Taylor reinforced the city’s ambitions, noting that Brighton & Hove is “well positioned to become one of the world’s leading hubs for women’s sport” and that a World Cup hosting role would be a key milestone in achieving that goal.
Financial Considerations
While the benefits are clear, the council also acknowledged financial pressures. Brighton & Hove City Council stressed that any final commitment must be assessed carefully in light of limited reserves and ongoing budget challenges. Further discussions will take place as part of the national bidding process.
Next Steps
The city will now move forward with preparing its formal bid, working with national football bodies as part of the UK’s planned submission to FIFA. A decision on the host nations and cities is expected in 2026.
