TheCable

Brazil has withdrawn its bid to host the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2023, citing a myriad of reasons amid the coronavirus pandemic.

In a statement on its website, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) said the government might not be able to offer financial guarantees “due to the scenario of fiscal and economic austerity, caused by the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

“After a thorough evaluation, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) decided to withdraw Brazil’s candidacy to host the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023. A combination of factors led to this decision, taken with great responsibility,” the statement read.

“FIFA’s analysis of the documentation of the Brazilian candidacy considered that the Federal Government guarantees and documents from third parties, public and private, involved in the event were not presented.

“CBF understands FIFA’s need to obtain such guarantees and knows that they are part of the international entity’s standard protocol, being a fundamental element to provide the necessary security for the realization of events of this size.”

Brazil will instead support Colombia’s bid to stage the tournament. Columbia is up against Japan and a joint bid from Australia and New Zealand to host the 32-team tournament.

The world football body is also expected to vote to select the hosts on June 25.

Brazil is currently battling the COVID-19 pandemic with more than 640,000 cases and 35,000 deaths recorded.