2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup: Everything You Need to Know
If you’re headed to Australia or New Zealand this year, you might want to pack your national flag in your suitcase. The 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup is kicking off on Thursday 20 July with New Zealand playing Norway in Auckland, and Australia playing Ireland in Sydney. Games continue in nine cities across the region this July and August.
The US squad is the defending Women’s World Cup champions, winning in Canada in 2015 and France in 2019. The question is: can America win the tournament three times in a row?
Why is Everyone Suddenly into Women’s Football?
The FIFA Women’s World Cup takes place every four years, with 32 qualifying nations competing to determine the world’s top team. This year’s tournament is the ninth edition; however, women’s soccer has definitely been enjoying more media attention of late. Consequently, more exposure means a larger audience can witness the talent and camaraderie that make the sport compelling and not just for women. In fact, 50 million football fans watched England’s Lionesses beat Germany in the UEFA Women’s Euro Cup final last year—a world record that FIFA will undoubtedly top in 2023.
In the lead-up to this year’s Women’s World Cup, there has also been controversy, with FIFA blocking the rainbow armband, offering players a selection of options covering a range of social causes, including inclusion and gender equality sanctioned by the governing body.
Where Are the FIFA Women’s World Cup Games Being Played?
In Australia, World Cup games are being played at world-class stadiums in Perth, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, and Brisbane. The four New Zealand host cities, all with standout sporting facilities, are Auckland (where the first Group A game between New Zealand and Norway kicks off on July 20), Wellington, Dunedin, and Hamilton.
Can I Still Get Tickets to a Game?
Most tickets for the 64 games held over four weeks have been snapped up in Australia; however, plenty of match passes are available for New Zealand games. Only six matches in New Zealand were close to being sold out a week before kick-off in July. In fact, one of the tournament sponsors offered 5,000 tickets to fans for free leading up to the first match. Organizers believe sales have been slower in New Zealand because the Football Ferns have never won a World Cup group match before. Imagine the jubilation if they get there in 2023!
If you’re keen to attend a specific game while in town, it is worth looking into premium official hospitality offers. Although tickets may come at a higher price, they include added perks like lounge access or catering.
Is There a Way to Watch the Game for Free?
There will be plenty of pubs, public squares, and beer gardens where you can catch the action live via Australia’s free-to-air Channel Seven TV network. Sky NZ has acquired the rights to broadcast the tournament in New Zealand, with games involving the NZ team available on a free-to-air basis nationwide.
If you’re in one of the nine host cities when the games are on, join the celebratory atmosphere at one of the free Fan Festivals hosted by FIFA. Check online for details.
Is There Anything Else I Need to Know?
All nine host cities are excellent bases—a mix of major metropolises and smaller, manageable-sized cities. It’s advisable to book accommodation as soon as possible. If there are any restaurants or must-see sights on your list, consider pre-booking those, too, as smaller cities like Hamilton are sure to fill up quickly.
It will be cooler during these winter months, and even colder the further south you go. Brisbane, Sydney, Auckland, and Perth generally enjoy mild temperatures; a jacket and umbrella should suffice. If you’re heading to Melbourne or Dunedin on New Zealand’s South Island, consider bringing warm gloves, a hat, and a scarf.
Are you already brimming with women’s football fever? Follow FIFA’s dedicated pages for the tournament on social media to stay updated and excited.
This article was first published on April 20, 2023, and updated on July 14, 2023.
