21 U.S. Cities Warn They Won't Sign 2031 Women's World Cup Bid Without New FIFA Terms
Updated
Updated · Sports Business Journal · Jun 11
21 U.S. Cities Warn They Won't Sign 2031 Women's World Cup Bid Without New FIFA Terms
3 articles · Updated · Sports Business Journal · Jun 11
Summary
Twenty-one U.S. cities told U.S. Soccer they are not prepared to sign onto the 2031 Women’s World Cup bid unless FIFA meaningfully renegotiates hosting terms.
Seven 2026 men’s World Cup host cities signed the draft letter, saying current FIFA arrangements have created major operational, financial and contractual strains; several other 2026 cities reportedly share those concerns.
The letter was never formally sent because of public-relations and political risks, but its demands were relayed to U.S. Soccer and then to FIFA.
Cities are so far limiting commitments to nonbinding one-page MOUs and plan to push for better terms after this summer’s tournament, with some still unhappy over 2026 match allocations.
The pressure reflects broader doubts about World Cup economics after North American hosts spent hundreds of millions of dollars while facing weak bookings, unsold tickets and limited local revenue upside.
Can US cities force FIFA into a fairer financial deal for the 2031 Women's World Cup, or is the model unbreakable?
As host cities bear the massive costs, who truly profits from the World Cup's projected $11 billion revenue?
The 2031 Women’s World Cup Standoff: U.S. Cities Demand Equitable FIFA Hosting Deals
Overview
A major standoff has developed between FIFA and over two dozen U.S. cities eager to host the 2031 Women’s World Cup. These cities, learning from the costly experience of the 2026 World Cup, have refused to sign FIFA’s binding agreements and instead opted for non-binding memorandums. Their unified pushback signals a strong demand for fairer terms and better financial arrangements before making any commitments. This collective action marks a turning point, as cities seek to protect their interests and set the stage for further negotiations, aiming for more equitable partnerships in hosting global sporting events.