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ZURICH (AP) — Belgium has become the 10th country — and first from Europe — to express an interest in bidding for the 2023 Women's World Cup.
The submission is the only new entry following the FIFA Council decision last month to enlarge the competition from 24 to 32 teams.
Argentina, Australia, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Japan, New Zealand and South Africa are also interested in hosting the tournament despite having to cope with eight additional teams. South Korea still mulling a joint entry with North Korea.
A victory for Belgium would produce back-to-back European hosts after France staged this year's event.
Countries have until Sept. 2 to confirm their participation in the contest before FIFA sends out official bidding requirements the following day.
Bid books have to be submitted by Dec. 13. The FIFA Council is to vote on the host in May 2020.
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