North and South Korea bid set to go up against Australia to host World Cup

Australia's efforts to host the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup is set to come up unlikely opposition after FIFA revealed a joint North and South Korea bid is still in the running to hold the marquee event.

North Korea leader Kim Jong-un Source: Getty Images

Hosting rights for the 2023 event are set to be one of the most tightly contested in the history of the tournament.

Nine bidders are expected to battle it out to put on the World Cup - including Brazil, South Africa, Argentina, Boliva, New Zealand, Colombia, Japan, Australia and the surprise expression of interest by historically frosty neighbours North and South Korea. 

South Korea originally planned an individual bid but a suggestion from FIFA to enter a joint effort with North Korea was welcomed by both countries.

Football Federation Australia launched Australia's campaign to host the competition in 2017 with a pledge from the Federal Government of up to $4 million dollars in funding. 

Formal bids for the tournament must be submitted to FIFA by October 4 with the 37-member FIFA Council to announce the winner in March 2020.

WATCH the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup LIVE, FREE and in HD on SBS from June 8 (AEST).