DFB Aims to Host Women’s Euro 2029
The German Football Association (DFB) has set its sights on hosting the UEFA Women’s EURO 2029. The decision was made during the DFB Executive Committee meeting on Friday, September 20th. DFB President Bernd Neuendorf emphasized the importance of promoting women’s football within the organization, stating, „The sustainable development of women in football and women’s football is of utmost priority within the DFB. The bid to host the UEFA Women’s EURO 2029 is a flagship project for us and will provide an additional boost to these areas.“
Taking inspiration from the successful hosting of the UEFA EURO 2024 for men, the DFB sees the Women’s EURO 2029 as the next major football tournament in Germany. DFB General Secretary Heike Ullrich praised the country’s stadium infrastructure and collaboration with host cities, stating, „The exciting UEFA EURO 2024, our excellent stadium infrastructure, and the great cooperation with host cities and local partners have demonstrated that we are a reliable host for these types of major sporting events.“
Bundesinnenministerin (Federal Minister of the Interior) Nancy Faeser expressed full support for the bid, highlighting Germany’s strength as a sports nation and a welcoming host for fans across Europe. Faeser stated, „We are a strong sports nation and a good host for millions of fans from all over Europe. We have just demonstrated this with the men’s EURO this summer. Bringing the EURO 2029 to Germany would make women’s football even more visible and powerful in our country.“
The decision on hosting the Women’s EURO 2029 will be made by the UEFA Executive Committee in December 2025. The tournament is set to feature 16 teams playing across 31 match days. If successful, this would mark Germany’s third time hosting the Women’s EURO, following the tournaments in 1989 and 2001. The 2025 edition of the tournament is scheduled to take place in Switzerland.
Application Process and Competition
The DFB aims to finalize its bid submission to the UEFA by September 24th. Following this, the association will reach out to stadium operators and cities that meet UEFA requirements to invite them to apply as potential host venues. UEFA stipulates that the tournament must have at least one stadium with a gross capacity of 50,000 seats, a minimum of three stadiums with a gross capacity of 30,000 seats each, and at least four stadiums with a gross capacity of 20,000 seats each.
By October 1st, UEFA will provide detailed requirements to all interested bidders. Preliminary applications must be submitted by March 12th of the following year. In addition to Germany, Denmark and Sweden are planning a joint bid, while Portugal also intends to compete for the hosting rights.
Impact on Women’s Football in Germany
Hosting the Women’s EURO 2029 would not only showcase Germany’s ability to organize major sporting events but also elevate the profile of women’s football in the country. The tournament would provide a platform for female athletes to inspire the next generation of football players and fans. The DFB’s commitment to promoting women’s football is reflected in its efforts to secure the hosting rights for this prestigious event.
In conclusion, the DFB’s bid to host the UEFA Women’s EURO 2029 represents a significant opportunity to further develop women’s football in Germany and strengthen the country’s position as a leading sports nation in Europe. The decision on the host country will be eagerly awaited, with the potential to leave a lasting legacy for women’s football in Germany and beyond.