LONDON: The Football Association has withdrawn from the bidding to host the 2019 Women’s World Cup.

The FA had originally registered an expression of interest along with France, South Korea, New Zealand and South Africa.

A statement from English football’s governing body said: “The FA can confirm that it will not be progressing its initial interest in hosting either the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2019, or the Under-20 Women’s World Cup in 2018.

“Expressions of interest were lodged to gain a wider understanding of the bidding process, the benefits associated to the tournament and the competition to host the tournaments.

“Having assessed all of these factors The FA will not be furthering its interest in these competitions at this time.

“The FA remains committed to growing women’s football and continues to invest in the game domestically both at the elite and grassroots level.”

The four contenders will have to submit their definitive bids including all signed bidding and hosting documents by 1 October 2014. The host will be appointed by the Executive Committee at its meeting in December 2014.

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