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The Guardian - AU
The Guardian - AU
Sport
Mike Hytner and Jonathan Barrett

Australia in box seat to host 2026 Women’s Asian Cup as economic impact of World Cup revealed

The Matildas celebrate their quarter-final win over France on penalties in last year’s World Cup.
The Matildas celebrate their quarter-final win over France on penalties in last year’s World Cup. Football Australia says hosting the Asian Cup would cement the legacy of the breakthrough tournament. Photograph: Darren England/AAP

Australia is all but certain to host the Women’s Asian Cup in 2026 after potential rival bidders withdrew their interest.

Saudi Arabia and Uzbekistan have pulled out of the race, Guardian Australia understands, leaving Australia in the box seat to win hosting rights for a second major international tournament in the space of three years, following last year’s Women’s World Cup.

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