Germany ‘to bid’ for 2042 World Cup, 2038 depends on FIFA rules | OneFootball

Germany has emerged as a potential bidder for the 2038 or 2042 World Cup, though FIFA has not yet opened either process. The DFB is eyeing 2042 in particular, with 2038 considered if rules allow.

“We would love to, and there is an initiative from Neuendorf and the DFB to bid for 2042, maybe even 2038. It will depend on FIFA regulations,” said board member Axel Hellmann, speaking to The Athletic.

FIFA currently requires a minimum rotation of two confederations before the tournament returns to a continent. With 2030 split across three continents including Europe, 2034 had to be staged in Asia or Oceania and was awarded to Saudi Arabia. If that rotation holds, 2038 would fall to Oceania or North America, and Australia compete in Asia, leaving Oceania without a realistic host, while the United States have shown interest.

Germany hosted in 2006 and, on the 20-year mark, feels ready to do so again. Hellmann argued the 2030 split should not bar a European bid for 2038, adding, “It will be a success. There is room for a 2038 bid, but I am pretty sure we have great chances for 2042.” He said allowing a 2038 bid would show FIFA’s “elasticity” on unconventional political decisions.

Any final decision will rest with Bernd Neuendorf and the DFB. France has also been urged to bid for 2038 in a report by Territoires d’événements sportifs for the Sports Ministry, which says France would likely improve its chances by teaming with another European nation such as Germany. Hellmann said it is too early to know whether Germany would go alone or enter a joint bid.

Source: L'Équipe