May 8, FIFA has confirmed the eight Brazilian cities that will host matches during the 2027 Women’s World Cup on the South American continent.

President Gianni Infantino, flanked by high-profile Brazilians during the announcement on Wednesday, awarded Belo Horizonte, Brasilia, Fortaleza, Porto Alegre, Recife, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador and São Paulo hosting duties for the tournament.

In total, 12 cities had offered their services to host fixtures during the 32-team competition, with Belém, Cuiabá, Manaus and Natal missing out.

It is yet to be confirmed, however, which city will host the opening match of the tournament, and which facility will be used for the concluding match of the competition. The Estádio do Maracanã in Rio will likely boast a starring role during the festival of football having hosted the 2014 Men’s World Cup final.

“From samba to frevo, from stunning beaches to cosmopolitan cities, the world will experience the energy, colour and warmth that only Brazil can offer,” said Infantino during the announcement.

“We will continue to work closely with the selected host cities on the exciting journey ahead of us, creating unforgettable moments in each of their stadiums in 2027, and ensuring that this tournament has a major and widespread positive impact.

FIFA General Secretary Mattias Grafström added: “The FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 will mark a historic milestone as the tournament heads to South America for the very first time. More than a celebration of football, it is a powerful statement of inclusion, opportunity, and progress.”

Brazilian Football Federation President Ednaldo Rodrigues also commented: “The host cities chosen by FIFA already have modern stadiums and training centres to welcome players and fans from all over the world.

“In addition, they offer an excellent hotel network and efficient urban infrastructure, with ready-made mobility systems, security and public services to provide what an event of this magnitude requires.”

Brazilian Minister for Sport André Fufuca concluded: “Each of the selected host cities represents Brazil. A diverse and vibrant Brazil, with people who are passionate about football and places that already live and breathe the sport and that will now have the opportunity to leave a transformative legacy for their communities and for generations to come.”

FIFA’s selection process for host cities began in August last year. Brazil won the right to stage the tournament at the 2024 Congress in Bangkok, Thailand, defeating the European triumvirate bid of Belgium, Netherlands and Germany in a vote.

The tournament will be the first Women’s World Cup to take place on the South American continent – a milestone in the growth of the women’s game globally.

Host cities overview:

Belo Horizonte – Estádio Mineirão | Population: 2.3 million | Surrounded by mountains and known for its passionate fans, Belo Horizonte is a football powerhouse with a rich history of hosting major international matches.

Brasília – Estádio Nacional | Population: 3 million | Brazil’s modernist capital boasts iconic architecture and a state-of-the-art stadium, making it a striking stage for global football and a celebration.

Fortaleza – Arena Castelão | Population: 2.7 million | A sun-drenched coastal city where football meets the beach, Fortaleza delivers unforgettable fan energy, scenic landscapes and carnival spirit.

Porto Alegre – Estádio Beira-Rio | Population: 1.3 million |A southern stronghold of Brazilian football, Porto Alegre combines European influence with deep-rooted rivalries and a city-wide love for the sport.

Recife – Arena de Pernambuco | Population: 1.6 million | This northeastern capital brings bold colours, infectious frevo rhythms and relentless fan enthusiasm to the tournament – all set against a stunning Atlantic backdrop.

Rio de Janeiro – Estádio do Maracanã | Population: 6.2 million | A global symbol of football passion, Rio de Janeiro offers an iconic stage in the legendary Maracanã. With samba in its soul and celebration in its streets, the city will bring unmatched energy to the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027.

Salvador – Arena Fonte Nova | Population: 2.4 million | With its Afro-Brazilian culture and a joyful love for football, Salvador is home to one of the world’s most iconic carnivals, promising an atmosphere bursting with rhythm, colour and pride.

São Paulo – Arena Itaquera | Population: 11.4 million | Brazil’s largest city is a vibrant hub of football, culture and diversity. A cradle of talent with a deep connection to the women’s game, São Paulo offers world-class infrastructure and boundless energy for 2027.

Insideworldfootball.com