Could Women's World Cup be on way to city?

CITY COUNCIL LEADER SAYS WE'RE 'READY' TO HOST TOURNAMENT

- By JOE LOCKER

THE leader of Nottingham City Council says the city is “ready” to become a host for the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2035 - but the bid hinges on Nottingham Forest redeveloping the City Ground in the next decade.

If the UK bid to host the event is successful, Nottingham will be one of up to 20 cities shortlisted to host matches.

A decision on the shortlist is expected to be made by Fifa in April, and a final selection of 14 to 16 host cities and stadia is then expected to be revealed in 2030.

Councillor Neghat Khan (Lab), leader of the council, said: “We're incredibly excited about the possibility of being part of the Fifa Women’s World Cup in 2035.

“The power of women’s football to inspire communities, celebrate diversity and create lasting legacies is something we're passionate about.

“Whilst we're proud to be considered as a potential host city, we fully respect that if the UK is successful in its bid to host the tournament, it will be Fifa who decides which host cities are selected.

“For now, we're focused on showing how ready and enthusiastic we are to play our part in what could be a truly historic event.”

In March the Football Associations of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, along with UK Sport, submitted an initial bid to host the event.