Leeds hopes to host FIFA Women’s World Cup

Leeds City Council is set to approve a formal bid for the 2035 FIFA Women’s World Cup, aiming to bring up to seven matches to Elland Road Stadium. 

The move is part of the UK’s unopposed bid, which includes potential host cities across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Elland Road is expected to be a leading candidate thanks to planned redevelopment, which would increase capacity to 56,500 and modernise facilities. 

Leeds also has a proven track record for hosting international sporting events, including rugby, triathlon, cricket and cycling, as well as major cultural festivals.

Morrie Eisenberg, chief business officer at Leeds United, said: “We are thrilled at the prospect of bringing 2035 FIFA Women’s World Cup matches to Elland Road, which would be fantastic for both the club and the city.

“As part of our vision to enhance Elland Road, which would put it amongst the elite stadia in Europe, we want to host Premier League football and world-class events, and this is an amazing opportunity to do so.

“The women’s game has enjoyed huge growth over the past decade, which will only continue over the coming years and we want Elland Road to be part of that legacy, this is another example of the city and club coming together to drive positive impact for the Leeds community.”

The city hopes the tournament could generate around £70 million in visitor revenue, while supporting the continued growth of women’s football locally and nationally, building on the success of England’s Lionesses and grassroots leagues in West Yorkshire.

Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, added: “The possibility of Leeds and Elland Road hosting matches in a football world cup is hugely exciting and so we are delighted to be making our bid to be a host venue working with Leeds United and our partners. 

“Women’s football is booming at all levels following the incredible success of the Lionesses, which is fantastic to see in terms of inspiring people of all ages to lead healthy and active lifestyles.

“And as a city Leeds has a proven track-record for hosting major international events, so we look forward to being part of this bidding process and hearing on the next steps in due course.”

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