Fifa’s new Women’s Club World Cup, initially slated to begin in 2026, may be delayed beyond its original timeline. The tournament, which has widespread support within Fifa and among the confederations, faces delays as discussions continue about the need for more preparation before its inaugural event. While no final decision has been made regarding the launch date, sources suggest that the matter will be discussed in an upcoming Fifa Council meeting, where there remains strong backing for the competition.
One proposal to address the delay is to hold a smaller, four-team mini-tournament in 2026, which would give stakeholders additional time to prepare for the full 16-team version of the competition. This plan would allow more breathing room for organizing the event on a larger scale while maintaining momentum for its eventual expansion.
The Women’s Club World Cup was first announced by Fifa in May 2021, with plans for the competition to be held between January and February 2026, contingent upon approval of the updated women’s football calendar. Fifa President Gianni Infantino has long advocated for a global club competition for women, drawing parallels with the men’s Club World Cup, which has existed since 2000. Infantino emphasized that a women’s competition was essential to provide female players with a global stage to showcase their talents and further their development across different continents.
The men’s Club World Cup has expanded significantly over the years. This summer, it will become a 32-team tournament, held every four years, with Manchester City and Chelsea representing the Premier League in this edition. European teams have dominated the men’s tournament, winning the last 11 editions. However, the landscape for the women’s tournament is expected to be more competitive, as several countries with strong women’s leagues, such as the United States, Mexico, Japan, and Australia, are anticipated to be key contenders.
Fifa’s commitment to launching a women’s version of the Club World Cup is clear, but the complexities involved in organizing such a large-scale event for women’s football are significant. The logistical challenges, including aligning league schedules, ensuring competitive balance, and securing sponsorships and broadcasting deals, require careful consideration. Given that women’s football is still developing in many regions, Fifa wants to make sure the competition is not rushed and that it can be a success from the start.
The idea of a smaller four-team tournament in 2026 would provide an opportunity to test the format and work out any potential issues before the full 16-team competition is introduced. This would also give clubs more time to prepare their teams for such a prestigious event. If the mini-tournament is successful, it could serve as a foundation for a broader, more inclusive competition in the years that follow.
In the meantime, discussions at the Fifa Council will continue as the organization looks to finalize the timing and structure of the competition. While a delay may be frustrating for those eagerly anticipating the tournament, it may ultimately result in a more successful and sustainable competition in the future. The vision for a Women’s Club World Cup remains strong, and with the right amount of preparation, it could become a landmark event in the world of women’s football.
Fifa’s investment in the women’s game is evident, and the Women’s Club World Cup is expected to play a significant role in elevating the profile of women’s football on the global stage. The tournament will bring together the best teams from various continents, providing a unique platform for the growth of the sport and inspiring future generations of female athletes.
