Football: Brazil withdraws bid to host 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup

Brazil withdrew on Monday its bid to host the 2023 women's soccer World Cup, arguing it cannot offer FIFA the financial assurances it needs due to impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Brazilian soccer confederation also said in a statement it will support Colombia's bid against Japan and a joint candidacy of Australia and New Zealand. South America has never hosted the tournament. A decision is expected for June 25. The Brazilian soccer body said the administration of President Jair Bolsonaro told soccer's governing body it could not offer financial guarantees "due to the scenario of fiscal and economic austerity, caused by impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic."