Qatar joins race to host first Women’s Club World Cup in January 2028

Last month, FIFA confirmed plans to launch the Women’s Club World Cup, scheduled to take place from 5 to 30 January 2028. While no host nation was announced at the time, The Guardian has reported that Qatar are among the countries interested in staging the historic tournament, marking another step in strengthening their relationship with FIFA.

Over the past three years, Qatar have hosted the 2022 World Cup, the 2025 U17 World Cup and club-level competitions such as the FIFA Intercontinental Cup. In March, Doha is also set to host the men’s Finalissima between European champions Spain and South American champions Argentina.

Prior to this bid, Qatar had expressed interest in hosting the men’s Club World Cup in 2029. However, FIFA ruled that out due to plans to stage the tournament in summer, with Qatar’s climate considered unsuitable. Morocco and Spain, both co-hosts of the 2030 World Cup, are currently among the leading candidates for that event.

If Qatar are selected to host the Women’s Club World Cup, FIFA are expected to face scrutiny over ongoing concerns related to women’s rights and LGBTQ+ issues in the country. Qatar’s women’s national football team was only formed in 2009 and has not played a competitive match for more than a decade.

Another challenge surrounds scheduling, with the tournament set to take place during the European winter break. A month-long competition could place additional strain on players and clubs, potentially extending the domestic season.

The first Women’s Club World Cup will feature 16 teams, including at least five from Europe and two each from Asia, Africa, South America and North America. One team from five confederations, along with a representative from Oceania, will compete in a qualifying tournament to determine the final three places.

FIFA have yet to confirm the list of participating clubs. However, based on qualification criteria used in the men’s tournament, Arsenal, as Women’s Champions League winners, are expected to secure a place. Other European heavyweights such as Barcelona, Lyon and Eintracht Frankfurt are also considered strong contenders.