City shortlisted as World Cup base

BALLARAT could play a key role in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand.

Alongside 34 other locations, the City of Ballarat has been shortlisted to potentially host one of the 32 squads who are competing from around the world.

If selected, Ballarat will be one of 16 Team Base Camps in Australia for the cup competition, with players training at Ballarat Regional Soccer Facility at Morshead Park, and staying at the Mercure Ballarat Hotel and Convention Centre.

City of Ballarat mayor Cr Daniel Moloney said it would be thrilling for the community be involved in FIFA World Cup tournament action.

“We are very proud to have been shortlisted to become a Team Base Camp for what looms as a sensational event,” he said.

“We know how incredible our soccer facilities are, and we would love a chance for them to shine on the world stage.

“With the Women’s World Cup set to be the biggest female sport event in history, it’s an amazing opportunity for the city.”

Twenty-one potential Team Base Camp locations have been identified in New Zealand, and will host 16 Participating Member Associations.

At the conclusion of an upcoming Play-off Tournament in February, three successful FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifying national teams will have the chance to choose where they want to have their Team Base Camp.

Most of the Team Base Camp sites are expected to be confirmed before the end of the year after Participating Member Associations submit their preferences.

As part of the 2015 Asian Cup, Ballarat previously hosted Bahrain.