Australia to host Women's WC 2023 in New Zealand

KATHMANDU: FIFA has announced hosting of the 2023 Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

Colombia, which was the only other rival in the run after Brazil and Japan dropped out of the race earlier in June, got the nod ahead of the joint offer.

The 2023 edition will be the first to feature 32 sides in the women's sport-up from the existing 24. The competition is set for July through August 2023.

FIFA chairman Gianni Infantino said, "The bidding process was extremely competitive. We want to thank each of the bidders for their excellent work. It was done very, really well.

The bid received 22 out of 35 votes cast by members of the FIFA Council with Colombia receiving 13 votes.

Chairman of the Football Association Greg Clarke voted for Colombia as did the eight other members of the UEFA.  

(With inputs from Agencies)