FIFA has announced its plan to launch a women's version of the Club World Cup in 2026, over a quarter of a century after the first men's edition. The decision was made following extensive consultation with confederations and stakeholders, with the tournament proposed to be held every four years starting in 2026.
While the women's Champions League is well established in Europe, other confederations have less developed women's club championships. To address this, FIFA proposed an additional women's club competition in non-Club World Cup years starting from 2027.
The men's Club World Cup, first played in 2000, will be expanded to a 32-team competition in the next edition. The women's Club World Cup is expected to feature 16 teams, with each major confederation likely to provide at least two club sides.
Continental Women's Club Championships
Various confederations are at different stages in developing women's club championships. The Asian Women's Champions League is set to launch later this year, while the CONCACAF W Champions League in North America will debut in August 2024. The African Women's Champions League, established in 2020, has seen participation from a significant number of member nations.
Brazilian clubs have been dominant in the women's Copa Libertadores, with Corinthians being the most successful side in the competition's history. The South American Champions League has seen limited success for clubs outside Brazil.
Player Concerns and Future Development
Some players have expressed concerns about the proposed FIFA Women's Club World Cup, citing issues such as squad depth, facilities, and economic considerations. Danish captain Pernille Harder highlighted the importance of holistic development in women's football to ensure the success of such tournaments.
As women's club football continues to grow globally, the introduction of the FIFA Women's Club World Cup and other regional championships signifies a significant step towards promoting the sport and providing more opportunities for female players.
