The Victorian Government has confirmed they will support Australia’s bid to host the 2023 Women’s World Cup.
If Australia was to win the hosting rights, there are plans in place to play five games at AAMI Park during the five-week tournament.
Victorian Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Martin Pakula, claimed a significant event like the Women’s World Cup was a perfect fit for Melbourne.
“Melbourne loves putting on a show and the FIFA Women’s World Cup™ is as big as it gets in women’s sport,” Minister Pakula said.
“Major events and sport are synonymous with Victoria – we are proud to be playing our role with Football Federation Australia in the bid to win the rights to host what will be an amazing month on the global calendar.”
Australia’s bid book will be officially submitted to FIFA next month, with talks still continuing with Football New Zealand about the possibility of a joint bid.
The 2023 Women’s World Cup will be the largest ever, with 32 teams competing and 64 games being played between July and August.
FIFA is expected to announce the host of the tournament in May 2020.
FFA chairman Chris Nikou was ecstatic that the Victorian government had pledged their support behind Australia’s quest to host the Women’s World Cup.
“Victoria is a world leader in delivering major sporting tournaments and it makes perfect sense that they are part of our bid to host the world’s largest women’s sporting event here in Australia,” Mr Nikou said.
“Our bid for the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023 is set to have huge economic benefits for the nation, and profound social impacts in communities across the country.
“Just as importantly, the opportunity to secure a lasting legacy for women’s sport in growing participation, building facilities, driving greater opportunities for women to be leaders in the game and building pathways for the next generation of Westfield Matildas will last for generations.
“I congratulate the Minister and his Government for joining us in partnership to deliver the best World Cup women’s football has seen. We are excited about submitting a compelling bid to FIFA and hosting a World Cup that fans and players will never forget.
“Victoria and its passion for football are very much at the heart of our bid,” Mr Nikou concluded.