Which Country Could Host the FIFA World Cup in 2038?

The next few editions of football’s grandest stage already have bid wars swirling, but 2038 feels like a wild card. No nation has officially thrown its hat into the ring yet, yet a mix of ambition, infrastructure upgrades, and geopolitical shifts are giving fans plenty to talk about. Below we dive into the continents that are most likely to make a push, the factors that could tip the scales, and why the decision may come down to more than just stadium capacity.

What Makes a Strong 2038 Candidate?

FIFA’s selection committee looks at a checklist that reads like a modern city’s wish list:

• Stadium Quality. At least 12 venues, with a minimum of one “iconic” stadium that can hold 80,000‑plus spectators.
• Transport Links. Efficient airports, high‑speed rail, and reliable public transit to move fans across the host nation.
• Economic Backing. Guarantees that the tournament won’t become a financial burden on taxpayers.
• Legacy Plans. Post‑tournament use of facilities, from community sports hubs to concert venues.
• Geopolitical Stability. A country that can assure safety and smooth visa processes for thousands of visitors.

Those criteria have evolved since the inaugural World Cup, and they will be even stricter by the time 2038 rolls around.

Europe’s Quiet Contenders

Europe has already hosted the tournament three times in the last two decades (Germany 2006, Russia 2018, and the upcoming 2026 joint bid with Canada and the United States). Still, some nations whisper about a future bid.

Poland‑Ukraine Joint Bid

After co‑hosting Euro 2020, both countries showcased modern stadiums and a surprisingly resilient transport network. A joint bid could appeal to FIFA’s interest in shared hosting models, spreading costs while demonstrating regional cooperation.

Scandinavian Edge

Sweden has floated the idea of a combined Nordic bid, possibly with Finland and Denmark. The region offers cutting‑edge sustainability practices—an angle FIFA is increasingly courting. However, the relatively small population might raise questions about ticket sales.

North America’s Long‑Term Plans

The United States, Canada, and Mexico are still riding the wave of the 2026 tournament. While hosting again within a short span seems unlikely, the sheer size of the U.S. market keeps it on the radar.

Mexico’s Renovated Vision

Mexico’s stadiums are slated for major upgrades ahead of the 2026 games. If those projects stay on schedule, the nation could leverage that momentum for a solo 2038 bid, highlighting a blend of tradition and modern infrastructure.

South America: Tradition Meets Modernity

South America’s passion for football is unmatched, yet the continent faces infrastructure challenges.

Colombia’s Growing Ambition

Having successfully hosted the 2011 Copa América, Colombia is investing heavily in new stadiums in Bogotá and Medellín. A 2038 bid could showcase the country’s progress in safety standards and transportation upgrades.

Chile’s Coastal Appeal

Chile’s long, narrow geography allows for spectacular seaside venues. The government has pledged funds for a high‑speed rail corridor that would link Santiago to the coast, a potential selling point for FIFA.

Asia‑Pacific: The Rising Powerhouses

After Qatar’s 2022 spectacle, Asian nations are eager to prove that a desert can host a world‑class event without controversy.

South Korea’s Dual‑City Dream

Seoul and Busan together could meet the venue count while offering seamless travel via Korea’s renowned high‑speed rail. The nation also promises a “smart stadium” concept, integrating AI‑driven crowd management—a subtle nod to future tech.

Australia’s Next Frontier

Following the successful 2023 Women’s World Cup, Australia boasts stadiums that meet FIFA standards and a robust tourism industry. A bid could lean on the “down‑under experience,” emphasizing wildlife tours and coastal festivals alongside football.

Africa’s Long‑Awaited Return

Since South Africa’s 2010 triumph, the continent has been waiting for another chance. The question isn’t whether Africa can host but where it might happen.

Morocco’s Persistent Pursuit

Morocco has bid three times already (1994, 2010, 2026). Each attempt has refined their pitch: new stadiums in Casablanca and Rabat, plus a high‑speed line linking major cities. By 2038, they could finally tip the balance.

Egypt’s Nile‑Side Vision

Imagine the iconic Pyramids as a backdrop to a stadium in Cairo. Egypt is already upgrading the Borg El Arab stadium and promises a “heritage corridor” that blends ancient sites with modern fan zones.

How the Decision Might Unfold

FIFA typically opens the formal bidding process about nine years before the tournament. For 2038, that means a window opening around 2029. Nations will need to submit a detailed dossier, followed by inspections and a vote at the FIFA Congress.

Until the dossiers are in, speculation will dominate fan forums and sports columns. Yet a few trends are emerging:

• Joint Bids. Europe and South America are both flirting with multi‑country proposals, a model that spreads risk.
• Sustainability. Green stadiums, carbon‑neutral transport, and legacy community projects are becoming non‑negotiables.
• Technology. Nations that can promise high‑speed connectivity for fans—think 5G stadiums and smart ticketing—gain an edge.

In the end, the host of the 2038 World Cup will likely be a nation—or a partnership—that balances football heritage with forward‑thinking infrastructure. Whether that’s a familiar European power, a bold African comeback, or an Asian tech showcase remains to be seen. One thing’s certain: the road to 2038 will be as fascinating as the tournament itself.