FIFA’s latest bid evaluation report signals a strong likelihood that Seattle will host matches for the 2031 Women’s World Cup. The governing body released detailed assessments on Nov. 11 for both the 2031 and 2035 tournaments, highlighting the joint bid submitted by the United States, Mexico, Costa Rica, and Jamaica for the 2031 event. Seattle is listed among twenty potential host cities, with Lumen Field specifically designated as the venue for matches ranging from the group stage through the semifinals. The FIFA Congress is scheduled to officially appoint the host nations on Nov. 23, a decision that will confirm the city’s role in the upcoming cycle.
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The potential return of the tournament follows a highly successful 2026 FIFA World Cup run, where Seattle hosted six matches, including four group stage games and two knockout rounds. The city’s most recent major fixture was the Round of 16 match on July 6, where Belgium defeated the United States 4-1. Beyond the on-pitch action, the economic impact was substantial; Visit Seattle reported that the 2026 tournament generated $109 million in tax revenue and supported approximately 20,000 local jobs. These metrics likely bolstered the city’s case for inclusion in the 2031 bid evaluation, demonstrating both infrastructure readiness and proven economic viability.
For soccer fans, the inclusion of Lumen Field in the 2031 bid represents a significant milestone for the region’s soccer infrastructure. While the 2035 tournament features a separate joint bid from England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, the focus for North American fans remains on the 2031 cycle. The upcoming Nov. 23 FIFA Congress vote will be the decisive moment, potentially locking in Seattle’s status as a recurring World Cup host and ensuring the city remains a central stage for the sport’s highest-profile international competition.
Source: Yahoo Sports
