Australia urged to make bid for 2050 FIFA World Cup

Andrew Brown | July 23, 2026

Federal Labor has been urged to make a bid for the FIFA World Cup in order to capitalise on Australia’s growing passion for the sport.

Labor’s national conference passed a motion which would call on the federal government to make a bid for hosting rights of the World Cup in 2050.

 “A bid for hosting rights of the FIFA Men’s World Cup by 2050 with neighbouring countries would be elevated by continued upgrading of existing regional infrastructure and establishing cross-border hosting partnerships to leverage the legacy of the 2032 Brisbane Olympics,” the motion said.

The motion also called for the development of a national football facility, which would strengthen pathways from grassroots football.

Delegates told the conference the need for the bid comes after the success of the Socceroos at the recent World Cup in the US, where they reached the round of 32.

Countries suggested to co-host the World Cup with Australia include New Zealand, Indonesia and Singapore.

Australia has never held a men’s World Cup, but did host the women’s World Cup with New Zealand in 2023, with the Matildas going on a record-breaking run to the semi-finals.

The nation’s bid to host the 2022 World Cup only received a single vote, with hosting rights given to Qatar.

Australia opted out of any bids for the 2034 World Cup, which will be held in Saudi Arabia.