Women’s Asian Cup fever floats into Parramatta

Football fever has taken over Parramatta, with a four-metre inflatable soccer ball floating along the Parramatta River and free, family-friendly activities taking place for the 2026 Women’s Asia Cup next month.

Australia will host the AFC Women’s Asian Cup for the first time ever with games being played in Parramatta and Sydney Olympic Park, as well as Perth and the Gold Coast.

The inflatable soccer ball will be lit up at night with light projections and a dynamic soundscape to celebrate the games being in the City.

Lord Mayor, Martin Zaiter said Council is bringing free music, entertainment and games into Parramatta and Centenary Squares on days where games are played at Parramatta.

“Parramatta is the home of festivals, sports and entertainment, and we are taking the spirit of the Women’s Asia Cup to the streets so everyone can get in on the action,” Lord Mayor Zaiter said.

“We know how to party and just like other successful activations for the women’s World Cup in 2024 and the men’s World Cup in 2022, we’ll provide an experience like no other.”

Twelve nations, including Australia, will do battle to be crowned Asia’s best women’s football team, with teams taking to the field at Sydney Olympic Park and Parramatta.

“This is another international event that is putting our global City on the map,” the Lord Mayor said.

“Visitors are the biggest contributors to our local economy. Between May 2024 and May 2025 more than $1.9 billion was pumped into Parramatta with 26 per cent of this spend made at the City’s tourism and entertainment venues.

“I look forward to seeing both our stadiums and streets packed with visitors, who can stay and enjoy some of the best restaurants and cafes our City has to offer.

“Make the most of the public transport options like Parramatta Light Rail, train and bus and join us for one of the biggest parties in our CBD for this year.”

AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ Local Organising Committee Chief Operating Officer, Sarah Walsh said hosting the games marked an historic moment. 

“Having this installation here in Parramatta recognises the key role Western Sydney will play, with six matches at Western Sydney Stadium and five at Stadium Australia bringing Asia’s best teams into communities that are home to some of the most passionate football fans,” Ms Walsh said.

“Over the coming days the excitement will only build as we get ready to welcome Asia and kick off something truly special together.” 

Game Schedule for Parramatta:

For more information, visit atparramatta.com.