Football crazy: Cities want to host World Cup

Leeds is facing further competition in the race to host Women's World Cup football here in the city as a decision looms over the £200m Elland Road expansion plans.

- by Nicola Adam

England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales will host the 2035 Women's World Cup and stadiums must meet certain criteria to be considered.

Now, Brighton and Hove has announced it is also throwing its hat in the ring alongside the likes of Manchester, London, Glasgow, Liverpool, Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Newcastle-and Leeds. At least eight football grounds will be required for the 48-team tournament.

Leeds United is working with the city council to bid for hosting rights. Elland Road is in line for redevelopment under proposals which would take the stadium's capacity from just over 36,000 to around 53,000 with a new West Stand followed by an enhanced North Stand, which would make it the seventh largest club stadium in England.