CORNERFLICK
Germany has formally declared its interest in hosting the men’s World Cup in 2042, with officials also ready to bid for 2038 if FIFA alters its rotation policy.
Germany’s plan
According to Adam Crafton of The Athletic, senior figures in German football have started planning a return of the World Cup to the country. One official said 2042 is the main target, but 2038 could also become an option.
Rotation rules limit the field
FIFA’s current system requires at least two World Cups to be staged in other confederations before a region can host again. That has already shaped the next two tournaments, with 2030 set for Morocco, Spain, Portugal, Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay, and 2034 awarded to Saudi Arabia.
Under that pattern, the main candidates for 2038 would be in North America or Oceania. Australia sits in the Asian confederation, which leaves the United States and other North American bidders with the strongest chance.
Germany last hosted the tournament in 2006 and officials hope FIFA will show enough flexibility to bring European countries back into the race sooner.