New Old Trafford Included In 2035 World Cup Bid

Manchester United’s proposed new Old Trafford stadium is included in the UK’s bid to host the 2035 Women’s World Cup.

Old Trafford was not considered for the 2028 men’s European Championship and its redevelopment is still in the planning stages.

England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland’s joint bid stands unopposed and could be ratified by a vote in a Fifa congress in 2026.

If redevelopment plans do not go ahead, Old Trafford will still be considered in its current form.

In total the 21 other stadiums set to feature include Birmingham City’s planned new stadium and Wembley – which is likely to host the final.

Should the UK’s bid be confirmed, the 2035 tournament will be the second time a World Cup has been held in the home nations after the 1966 men’s tournament in England.

In total, 22 stadiums were listed in Friday’s announcement – 16 in England, three in Wales, two in Scotland and one in Northern Ireland.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said: “The Lionesses’ success has inspired girls across our country, and 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.”

Scotland head coach Melissa Andreatta said: “The impact of bringing the World Cup to our nation would be felt for decades, driving participation, investment and equality at every level of the sport.”

England head coach Sarina Wiegman added: “It’s so much more than football, I think. It will boost the women’s game but it will boost women in society and, as we have seen, it will bring the country together.”