JUST IN: Man United’s new Old Trafford listed in UK’s 2035 Women’s World Cup bid

Manchester United’s proposed new Old Trafford stadium has been named as one of 22 venues in the UK’s joint bid to host the 2035 Women’s World Cup.

According to BBC Sport on Friday, although Old Trafford was not included in plans for the 2028 men’s European Championship, it remains under consideration for the Women’s World Cup, with redevelopment plans still in the planning stages. If the upgrades do not go ahead, the stadium will still be included in its current form.

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

Other stadiums set to feature in the bid include Birmingham City’s planned new stadium and Wembley Stadium, which is likely to host the final.

If the bid is successful, the 2035 Women’s World Cup will mark the second time a World Cup has been held in the home nations, following 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.

A joint statement from the CEOs 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 also demonstrates our commitment to leaving a lasting legacy in the run-up to 2035 and the years afterwards.”

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer added:”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.”

Scottish women’s national team 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.”