Why hasn’t the host of the 2031 Women’s World Cup been confirmed?

Why hasn’t the host of the 2031 Women’s World Cup been confirmed?

Author: The Athletic April 17, 2026 Duration: 33:30

The United States, Mexico, Costa Rica and Jamaica were expected to be confirmed as the hosts of the 2031 Women’s World Cup at the end of April 2026. However, FIFA has suddenly postponed plans for any imminent announcement. So, what’s the holdup?


On this episode of Full Time Focus, host Jillian Sakovits is joined by The Athletic’s Henry Bushnell and Melanie Anzidei to dive into the long runway to the 2031 Women’s World Cup and what is going on behind the scenes at FIFA and U.S. Soccer. When will the host of the tournament be confirmed? What role do government guarantees play? What lessons will need to be learned from the 2026 Men’s World Cup? What does the departure of U.S. Soccer Sporting Director Matt Crocker mean for the U.S. women’s national team?

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HOST: Jillian Sakovits

GUESTS: Henry Bushnell, Melanie Anzidei

PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes

VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin

EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen

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Referenced on the show:

Matt Crocker’s abrupt U.S. Soccer departure brings many questions. Here are the answers

‘Hard to not feel scammed’: World Cup fans say FIFA misled them with ticket allocations, seat maps

U.S. 2031 Women’s World Cup bid waiting on Trump guarantees while host cities want better deal

How a $150 train ticket caused a fight between FIFA and New Jersey’s governor

White House wants FIFA to change transgender policy, with Women’s World Cup guarantees on the line

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For anyone who lives and breathes the beautiful game as played by women, Full Time: A show about women's soccer is your essential audio companion. This isn't just a recap show; it's a deep, thoughtful, and often lively exploration of the entire ecosystem. Produced by the journalists at The Athletic, the podcast delivers expert analysis and storytelling you can trust, moving seamlessly from the latest U.S. women’s national team drama to the week's pivotal NWSL results and major stories from leagues across Europe and the globe. Three times a week, hosts Meg Linehan, Tamerra Griffin, and Jillian Sakovits break down the matches, but more importantly, they dig into the culture, context, and consequential conversations that define the sport's moment. You'll hear from fellow reporters, players, coaches, and insiders who provide unique perspectives you won't find anywhere else. Whether it's a transfer saga, a tactical revolution, or a discussion about the broader impact of the game, this is where the narrative gets unpacked. Tune in for a blend of immediate reaction, investigative reporting, and the kind of informed debate that mirrors the passion of the fans themselves. This podcast goes beyond the final whistle to deliver the full story.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Full Time: A show about women's soccer
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