With the FIFA World Cup 2026 set to kick off in North America, the world’s best will also be coming to Australian shores for our own showcase: the Winter Festival of Football.

The tour will bring European giants such as Chelsea Women and players including Matildas veteran Ellie Carpenter to Australian and New Zealand stadiums.

Carpenter reflected on the heartbreak of the recent AFC Women’s Asian Cup final defeat to Japan, saying the disappointment quickly gave way to focus on her club football in England. Now at Chelsea, she’s embracing the chance to return home and inspire the next generation.

Carpenter also praised former teammate Sam Kerr, while highlighting the global pull of Australian football ahead of the tour, calling it a “festival” moment for fans and a reminder of how far the women’s game has come.

– with Georgie Tunny

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