Ottawa will be one of six Canadian cities hosting the world's largest female sporting event, expected to generate approximately $12 million to the city and attract more than 20,000 visitors, according to a city statement.
The six official host cities named Friday also include Edmonton, Moncton, Montreal, Vancouver and Winnipeg.
It will be the first FIFA Women's World Cup where 24 national teams will participate instead of the usual 16, which means that the number of matches will increase from 32 to 52.
"We are thrilled to serve as an official host city ... and look forward to welcoming the athletes, spectators and media from across the country and around the world," Mayor Jim Watson said in a statement. "Hosting events like this is a spectacular opportunity to showcase our beautiful capital city to the world while generating significant investment in our local economy."
The City of Ottawa has committed to $400,000 of funding through policing, paramedic and transit services, and the federal government will provide up to $15 million to the tournament.
City staff could not confirm what events will be hosted in Ottawa, but sporting matches are set to be held in the revamped Lansdowne Park.
The announcement comes after Ottawa successfully hosted high profile events such as the 2012 NHL All-Star Weekend and the 2012 Juno Awards. The city will also host the International Ice Hockey Federation women's world championships in 2013.
Mr. Watson has said attracting high-profile sporting tournaments and cultural festivities is a priority for the city, which recently created a special events office with Ottawa Tourism.
"Our philosophy is simple – bid more, win more, host more – and so far we are seeing this strategy pay off with more world-class events coming to Ottawa and growth in our hospitality sector," stated Mr. Watson. "Our hotels, restaurants and shops are filled, the airport is working at capacity and we are seeing a clear return on our investment both in the prosperity of local businesses and in Ottawa's emerging international reputation."
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