Scotland steps into the global spotlight — but will football’s most prestigious stage come home to the UK in 2035?
Two of Scotland’s most iconic arenas — Hampden Park in Glasgow and Easter Road in Edinburgh — have officially been named in the United Kingdom’s joint bid to host the 2035 FIFA Women’s World Cup. It’s a historic moment that could reshape the landscape of women’s football across the UK.
If the proposal secures FIFA’s approval, matches will unfold across 22 stadiums situated in 15 host cities spanning Scotland, England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The four national football associations have come together to present this unified vision — a bid that, intriguingly, faces no direct competition from any other country. Could this near-certain path to success accelerate the growth of women’s football like never before — or does winning unopposed raise deeper questions about global investment in the women’s game?
Among the major cities included in the bid are London, Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham, Cardiff, Belfast, and Newcastle. Of the 22 proposed venues, 16 are based in England, three in Wales, two in Scotland, and one in Northern Ireland — emphasizing England’s central role while still celebrating the UK’s collective effort.
Shirley Martin, Head of Girls’ and Women’s Football for the Scottish Football Association, described the moment as potentially “transformational.” She emphasized that the bid goes beyond simply hosting an international tournament. It’s about creating lasting pathways for players, coaches, and communities, inspiring young girls everywhere to believe that football truly is for them. “Scotland’s rich football heritage,” she added, “combined with the momentum of our growing women’s game, places us in a unique position to host a world-class, inclusive event that could leave a legacy for generations.”
Scotland’s First Minister, John Swinney, has also pledged full governmental backing, highlighting how the World Cup could fuel participation among women and girls while promoting physical activity and advancing equality across all sports. His comments signal recognition not only of football’s cultural significance but of its social power to drive change.
For many, this bid represents a bold step toward equality in sport. Yet some fans might wonder: will the UK’s dominance in the hosting lineup overshadow smaller nations or regions seeking their chance to shine? And what impact could such an event have on local communities beyond the bright lights of the stadiums?
With no rival bidders, the UK’s dream of bringing the Women’s World Cup home feels closer than ever. But here’s the bigger picture — is this the turning point women’s football has long deserved, or will it be a missed opportunity if not handled inclusively?
What do you think — would hosting the 2035 Women’s World Cup in the UK truly ignite long-term change for women’s sport, or does the plan need broader international collaboration to make a global impact?