ZURICH - FIFA has picked France to host the Women's World Cup in 2019.

The FIFA executive committee awarded France the hosting rights over South Korea.

FIFA President Sepp Blatter announced the decision Thursday, bringing the tournament back to Europe after Germany served as host in 2011.

The 2015 tournament kicks off in Canada on June 6 with 24 teams for the first time. Japan is the defending champion after winning a 16-nation tournament four years ago.

France will choose nine stadiums from 11 candidates, though Lyon will host the opening match and final.

FIFA also chose France to host the Women's Under-20 World Cup in 2018, which will be played in four venues in the Brittany region.