FIFA eyes on Tasmania as World Cup basecamp shortlist narrows

Football Tasmania has taken a big step in its efforts to attract international teams to the state for basecamps at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

A short video detailing the offerings of the proposed host venues – Lightwood Park (Kingborough), Valley Road (Devonport) and Churchill Park and Birch Avenue (both Launceston) – has been shown to FIFA representatives, who will soon make a decision on which venues are shortlisted for visiting teams to choose from.

Football Tasmania CEO Matt Bulkeley said the prospect of welcoming visiting teams for basecamps was huge for both the sport and the economy, encouraging Tasmanians to share the videos as far and wide as possible.

“As the third biggest sporting tournament on earth, welcoming visiting teams for basecamps offers an enormous and very exciting opportunity for Tasmania,” Mr Bulkeley said.

“In addition to the playing squad and support staff, travelling fans and media also flock to basecamp cities, providing a massive boost to local economies and bringing the excitement and magic of the World Cup to town.

“With basecamps also comes an increased likelihood of practice matches, which is a mouth-watering prospect for football fans who might get a chance to see the world’s best players in action on the playing field as well as on the training pitch.”

“Tasmania has so much to offer visiting teams, including a comfortable training climate for northern-hemisphere based teams, short flight distances to most tournament venues and above all, a safe and supportive environment.

“Each of the four venues have also been undergoing upgrades thanks to support from the State Government and we’re excited to see these facilities take shape as work continues.

“The conversations we’ve had with FIFA so far have been very encouraging and we are looking forward to finding out if our proposed venues have made the shortlist.

“I encourage all Tasmanians to share the videos as far and wide as possible, and let the world know that we can’t wait to play our part in the 2023 Women’s World Cup.”

Football Tasmania’s basecamp shortlist videos are available for viewing below: