FIFA Women's World Cup 2035

The UK has confirmed it has submitted its bid to host the event in ten years' time.

Newcastle and Sunderland are two of 16 proposed host cities with 22 stadiums in the bid proposals, and if successful FIFA, the world governing body of association football, will reduce that to a final line-up of host cities.

North East Mayor Kim McGuinness and the North East Combined Authority (NECA) are committed to supporting both cities to host matches and fan zones if they are successful.

Built on a vision of All Together, the UK bid is highlighting how there can be a national celebration delivering the most inclusive, inspiring and globally connected FIFA Women's World Cup ever.

The bid has been welcomed by North East Mayor Kim McGuinness who said: "The North East lives and breathes football and the women's and girls' game is as vibrant here as anywhere in the country or even the world. Bringing the FIFA Women's World Cup 2035 to the home of football would be amazing and I'm committed to helping make that happen.

"We want to make the North East the UK's first Region of Sport, a place where every child growing up gets to experience the joy taking part in sport brings - and that's also about bringing the big events here to inspire our future potential superstars to take that first step towards their dreams."

At a meeting earlier this month, Sunderland City Council's Cabinet backed participation to be a potential Host City and Newcastle City Council's Cabinet gave its backing in October.

Leader of Sunderland City Council, Councillor Michael Mordey said: "The benefits of hosting a major tournament can be very significant. If the region has two host cities it can bring rewards and benefits that go far beyond the final whistle.

"With world-class facilities, a passionate sporting culture, and a proven track record of hosting major events in our region, we're ready to continue showcasing our strengths on the global stage. Host cites will benefit from even more participation in women's and grassroots football and this all helps grow long-term interest in sport."

With host status, Newcastle and Sunderland would deliver a series of large-scale community events such as fan festivals for up to 10,000 people alongside matches at St James' Park and the Stadium of Light.

Councillor Karen Kilgour, Leader of Newcastle City Council, said: "The incredible recent successes of the Lionesses have elevated interest and participation in women's sports to new heights and it's so exciting for Newcastle and the wider region to be at the heart of such a momentous occasion as the FIFA Women's World Cup.

"We've held many global sporting events in recent years and we know how to put on a show. Putting local rivalries aside and joining forces with Sunderland to position the North East front and centre of the biggest football competition of them all is a rare opportunity to showcase our proud region to the world and inspire a generation of women and girls."

Grace Williams, Director of Women's Football, Newcastle United Women, said: "The North East has produced some of England's greatest ever women's footballers, and the region is renowned for its passion and love of football. The incredible backing that we receive from our fans highlights the passion for the game each and every week, and this support is continuing to grow.

"Any nation who would play a FIFA Women's World Cup game here would instantly experience the warmth of the community and the unrivalled love for football that we have. I can't imagine a World Cup in England without games being held in this part of the country."

Sunderland AFC's Chief Business Officer, David Bruce said: "As part of Sunderland AFC's long-standing commitment to championing women's sport, the Stadium of Light has proudly hosted landmark events including Lionesses international fixtures and the opening game of the 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup.

"These moments highlight our role in supporting the growth of elite women's sport on the global stage, and being part of the UK's bid for the FIFA Women's World Cup 2035 is a natural continuation of that commitment.

"We are passionate about creating opportunities, inspiring future generations, and providing a platform where women's sport can continue to thrive. It would be an honour to welcome the world to Sunderland for a tournament of such immense prestige and significance."