A Long List

FIFA announced the list of a record nine member associations that have submitted "formal bidding registrations" for the '23 Women's World Cup. South Korea’s FA was listed as a "sole entry," though FIFA noted the KFA’s “expressing interest in a joint bid with” North Korea. The two Koreas "expressed their interest in the joint bid last month."  A KFA official said that the South and North Korean soccer bodies have not had a "chance to discuss their proposal" and the KFA decided to "go ahead with the sole bid" (KOREA HERALD, 4/17).

All nine member associations "must submit formal bid plans" by Oct. 4. The "other contenders" are Brazil, South Africa, Argentina, Australia, Bolivia, Colombia, Japan and New Zealand (AP, 4/17).