Old Trafford included in UK bid to host 2035 Women’s World Cup, alongside 21 other venues across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland

Manchester United’s proposed new Old Trafford stadium has been confirmed as one of 22 venues in the United Kingdom’s joint bid to host the 2035 Women’s World Cup, the club and The Football Association announced on Friday.

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BBC Sport reported that while Old Trafford was not selected for the 2028 men’s European Championship, it remains under consideration for the Women’s World Cup.

Plans for redevelopment are ongoing, but even if upgrades do not proceed, the stadium will still be included in its current form.

The UK bid, a collaborative effort involving England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, currently stands unopposed. It could be ratified at a FIFA Congress vote in 2026.

Other stadiums named in the bid include Birmingham City’s planned new stadium and Wembley Stadium, which is expected to host the tournament final.

If successful, the 2035 Women’s World Cup will be the second World Cup held in the home nations, following the 1966 men’s tournament in England.

In total, the 22 venues comprise 16 in England, three in Wales, two in Scotland, and one in Northern Ireland.

In a joint statement, the chief executives of the FA, Irish FA, Scottish FA, and FA of Wales said:
“A Women’s World Cup in the UK has the power to turbocharge the women’s and girls’ game both in the UK and globally. Our bid demonstrates a commitment to leaving a lasting legacy leading up to 2035 and beyond.”

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer added:
“The Lionesses’ success has inspired girls across our country. We’ll build on that momentum by welcoming millions of football fans from around the world to a tournament that will benefit communities and businesses in host cities up and down the UK.”

Scottish women’s national team coach Melissa Andreatta highlighted the long-term impact:
“Bringing the World Cup to our nation would be felt for decades, driving participation, investment, and equality at every level of the sport.”

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The announcement underscores the UK’s growing ambition to cement its status as a global hub for women’s football while leaving a lasting legacy in infrastructure, development, and grassroots engagement.