Jamaica looks to host matches in 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cup
Jamaica is set to play a historic role in the staging of the 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cup, with reports that the island is bidding to host matches in the tournament, which will be staged in the United States and Mexico.
When quizzed by Observer Online, President of the Jamaica Football Federation, Michael Ricketts, confirmed the development and advised that an announcement will be made in New York later this month.
“I can give you a hint, an announcement will be made on October 20. Yes, we are (looking to host matches in the 2031 FIFA Women’s World Cup) to be honest. We will make a formal announcement in New York on the 20th of this month; yes it’s for the 2031 tournament,” Ricketts confirmed.
He said the move reflects the rapid growth of local football, especially among women.
“When we took office, our women’s team was ranked 119th and now we are ranked in the 40s. We were always intent, our agenda was one single item and that was to grow football, and we have been able to do that,” Ricketts said.
“We have qualified two senior women’s teams consecutively and we are going for our third,” he said. “Even though the men’s team would have taken so much attention and resources, we have not shoved our women’s programme aside.”
The bid is reportedly being backed by the Government and coincides with plans to redevelop the National Stadium in Kingston, a project which will be completed in 2029.
The renovation of the 37,500 capacity venue will see 90 per cent roof coverage, tiered parking for 4,500 vehicles, upgraded media, medical and anti-doping facilities, the addition of premium lounges, improved lighting, green spaces, concession areas and access for disabled spectators.
Jamaica’s national senior women’s football team — the Reggae Girlz, participated in the 2019 and 2023 editions of the FIFA Women’s World Cup, achieving a historic qualification to the Round of 16 in 2023.
The 2031 tournament will mark Concacaf’s fourth time hosting the FIFA Women’s World Cup, and Jamaica’s participation would make the island the first Caribbean nation to host a senior World Cup match.
