FIFA NEWS

June 15, 2004 FIFA is considering increasing number of teams in female FIFA World Cup Finals FIFA is considering a plan to increase the number of teams qualifying for the FIFA Women's World Cup & the FIFA Women's U-19 World Championship because of the rapid rise in talent in the world of women's soccer. It could increase by eight teams from the present 16 teams to 24 teams for the FIFA 2011 World Cup, and by four teams from the present 12 to 16 teams for either the 2008 or 2010 FIFA Women's U-19 World Championship. Currently there are seven countries vying for the 2011 World Cup, with Australia considered as the front runner. The 2007 World Cup will be hosted by China. There are no known countries bidding for the 2006 U-19 World Cup.