FIFA has officially announced the launch of the inaugural Women’s Club World Cup, slated to take place in January and February of 2026. The tournament, featuring 16 teams, will be held every four years, coinciding with the domestic season for European leagues.
This landmark decision was ratified during a FIFA congress held in Bangkok, marking a significant milestone in the global promotion of women’s football. FIFA had expressed its intention to establish a prestigious women’s club competition back in December 2022, and the confirmation of plans underscores the organization’s commitment to advancing the women’s game.
The tournament schedule is strategically positioned between the group stages and knockout rounds of the Women’s Champions League, ensuring minimal disruption to domestic league calendars. Notably, the USA’s National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) typically commences in March, aligning well with the timing of the Women’s Club World Cup.
Currently, Barcelona reigns as the European champions, while NY Gotham FC holds the title in the NWSL, and Brazilian side Corinthians are the reigning champions of the Copa Libertadores Femenina.
In addition to the Women’s Club World Cup, FIFA also approved a revised international match calendar spanning from 2026 to 2029. This revision aims to afford players more opportunities for rest and recovery by reducing the number of international breaks from six to five, demonstrating FIFA’s dedication to player welfare.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed his enthusiasm for these developments, stating, “The women’s international match calendar and the subsequent amendments to our regulations represent an important milestone in our pledge to take the women’s game to the next level by enhancing competitiveness across the world.”
Furthermore, FIFA has laid the groundwork for the expansion of the men’s Club World Cup tournament, which will also occur every four years, with the inaugural edition slated for the upcoming summer.
Looking ahead, the FIFA congress is poised to determine the host nation for the 2027 Women’s World Cup, with Brazil contending against a joint bid from Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands. This decision holds significant implications for the future of women’s football on the global stage.