FIFA President Gianni Infantino was a special recent guest at Australian Parliament House, as the FIFA Women’s World Cup was presented in Canberra.
Joining him was Australia Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, along with Football Australia Chair and CEO Chris Nikou and James Johnson respectively.
A meeting was held to discuss the hugely successful World Cup far, which has attracted record-breaking attendances and broadcast viewership. Already, over 1.8 million ticket sales have been made across Australia and New Zealand, an amazing result for tournament.
The meeting was followed by a trophy lift, as Infantino spoke to the attendees about his gratitude for the overwhelming fan support.
“Football is so important for society, for inclusion, for the community, for economic growth, for physical health, for mental health and for happiness,” the FIFA President said via a statement.
“It is important for children because through football and playing football, they learn. They learn how to play as a team, how to count on the team-mates, how to win, but also how to lose.
“And, most importantly, how to get up after defeat and go for the next game that we want to win, which is what happened to the Matildas. After defeat they all endured, and the whole country concentrated on the next game because you wanted to win that next game.”
“This tournament is a great event, and you are all really fantastic – a proud country, a country with a rich, rich history, a country which has put up the best FIFA Women’s World Cup ever.
“Thank you for having us here, for everything you do for football, for your children, for your girls, for your boys, in this beautiful country. And, thank you for uniting the entire world here in Australia and in New Zealand.”
The FIFA World Cup Trophy made its next stop to the University of Canberra, allowing the chance to get a photo with the famous silverware.
Football Australia Chair Chris Nikou outlined the role Football Australia has and the impact he wants the Women’s World Cup to have.
“As Chair of Football Australia, I’m immensely proud of what we have achieved so far. This historic edition of the FIFA Women’s World Cup has been a testament to our dedication, teamwork, and passion for football,’ he said via media release.
“We’ve not only hosted an unprecedented global event but have demonstrated the powerful role football plays in shaping our society, especially in terms of gender equality and diversity. I strongly believe that the legacy of this tournament will continue to inspire and shape the future of football in Australia, New Zealand, and beyond.”
Football Australia CEO James Johnson echoed Nikou’s thoughts with how the Women’s World Cup will have a positive influence.
“This FIFA Women’s World Cup has proven that we can turn dreams into reality,” Johnson stated, highlighting the record-breaking 1.8 million tickets sales to date, a significant leap from the 1.1 million tickets sold in Paris in 2019.
“Envision the social and health benefits that would flow with 400,000 more women and girls playing the game. This is the aspiration driving our Legacy ’23 initiative, and with record viewership and national broadcast reach for our CommBank Matildas’ victories, it’s clear we’re on the right path.
“Monday night’s CommBank Matildas’ victory over Canada, was the most watched program on the Seven network in 2023 with a national broadcast reach of 4.71 million.
“We are witnessing a landmark moment in the history of football not just for Australia and New Zealand but for the world at large. This tournament has proven the game’s far-reaching appeal, underpinned by its power to unite people across age groups and backgrounds.
“Our journey is only beginning. We are committed to creating an environment that bolsters the growth of women’s football, fosters inclusivity, and nurtures an enduring passion for the game.”
The Matildas continue their FIFA Women’s World Cup tonight (August 7) against Denmark at Stadium Australia, in the Round of 16.
