France awarded hosting rights for 2019 Women's World Cup

FIFA announced Thursday that France will host the 2019 Women's World Cup.

The awarding of the hosting rights took place during a ceremony at the home of FIFA in Zurich, Switzerland and was made by FIFA president Sepp Blatter and member of the FIFA Executive Committee Lydia Nsekera following a unanimous decision by the governing body.

Five countries – France, South Korea, England, New Zealand, South Africa – initially declared interest in hosting the tournament. However, the field was narrowed down to only France and South Korea when official bids were submitted in October.