Sydney Harbour Bridge was transformed into a festival of football this morning to mark the 25-day countdown until the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023.
Amidst the sparkling backdrop of the Sydney Harbour, more than 4,000 fans kicked-off festivities on the iconic bridge.
Hosted by former Matildas player, Amy Duggan, soaking up the buzzing festival atmosphere were grassroots football and multicultural communities, Young Matildas, local and international football legends including Joy Fawcett, FIFA representatives and the NSW Minister for Jobs and Tourism, John Graham. The tournament’s Beyond Greatness Champions, Mel McLaughlin, Steph Wood and Bruce “Hoppo” Hopkins were also in attendance and helped carry the flags of the 32 nations competing on the international stage.
A 17-metre-tall Unity Jersey was unveiled in spectacular fashion on the bridge – the jersey’s design was created to reflect the vibrant local landscapes and rich colours of the two host countries, building a palette based on the rainforests, earth, mountains, cities, and water. A radial motif featuring 32 colourful squares celebrates the 32 participating nations coming together, serving as a visual testament to the spirit, values and diversity that defines the sport and tournament.
Speaking at the event, FIFA Council Member, Johanna Wood said: “What a fabulous morning of football, culture and community coming together – a fitting stage to set the scene for what is to come in 25 days. We are committed to delivering an exceptional tournament and experience that will not only captivate the hearts and minds of football fans but also empower women in sport across the globe. We are so ready to go Beyond Greatness.”
NSW Minister for Jobs and Tourism, John Graham, said: “Today we stand on one of Australia’s iconic structures, excited to host the world’s best players and their passionate football fans in NSW. I am excited to have 11 matches scheduled here in NSW, and welcoming all the world class football teams and their fans at what is set to be the biggest FIFA Women’s World Cup ever.
“This tournament has the potential to be one of the biggest sporting events in Sydney since the 2000 Olympics and the NSW Government is happy to support the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023.”
Sydney will come alive during the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023 tournament hosting 11 matches across two venues. A central destination throughout the tournament, Sydney will host Australia’s opening match between Australia and the Republic of Ireland kicking off on Thursday 20 July. Fans of all ages can also enjoy the best in football, music, entertainment and local culture, food, and games for free at the FIFA Fan Festival™ in Tumbalong Park, Darling Harbour. Sydney will also witness the world champions crowned when the final takes place at Stadium Australia on 20 August.
The FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 will run from 20 July – 20 August 2023 across five Australian host cities: Sydney/Gadigal, Melbourne/Naarm, Brisbane/Meaanjin, Adelaide/Tarntanya and Perth/Boorloo and four New Zealand host cities including, Auckland/Tāmaki Makaurau Hamilton/Kirikiriroa, Dunedin/Ōtepoti and Wellington/Te Whanganui-a-Tara.
To secure your tickets visit http://www.fifa.com/tickets. Join the conversation on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok or Facebook by using #FIFAWWC #BeyondGreatness.
