Newcastle is gearing up to host games in the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup after the joint bid by Australia and New Zealand was successful overnight.
The joint venture outbid Columbia, to make history as the first co-Confederation to host the tournament and the first time it's being staged in the Southern Hemisphere.
Newcastle is set to play host to some of the visiting teams who will stay and train here while McDonald Jones Stadium is expected to be a match venue, drawing thousands of visitors to the city.
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes has welcomed the news, saying the vote had the Australia - and indeed Novocastrian - football fans cheering.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for Australia to showcase the Matildas’ and Newcastle Jets W-League talent on home turf and strengthen ties with our neighbours across the ditch while also unlocking economic benefits and driving positive social impacts for women and girls,” the Lord Mayor said.
“Australia staged the 2015 AFC Asian Cup, which included Newcastle hosting two group stage matches, a semi-final and third place playoff at McDonald Jones Stadium, reinforcing Newcastle’s reputation for hosting world-class sporting tournaments.
“Even more recently, Newcastle hosted the Matildas in the Olympic qualifier against Vietnam at McDonald Jones Stadium on 6 March in their qualification to the upcoming Olympics.
“Winning the 2023 Women’s World Cup bid reaffirms Australia’s ability to attract top-tier sporting codes and I can’t wait to join fans in the stands here in Newcastle.”
The Australian-New Zealand bid was rated the most technically proficient in FIFA’s report, ahead of Japan and Colombia.
The 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup will be held from 10 July to 20 August 2023.
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| Newcastle in the frame to host teams and games in the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup |
