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League characteristics

Sporting competitiveness

Head coaches – gender and licence requirements

Sporting

Leagues around the world have adopted various formats, innovative technologies and have different characteristics, each with their own merits.

Renard penalty

Governance

Good governance is key to the long-term sustainability of women’s football. In 2023, the majority of women’s football clubs continued to be loss-making, but there are signs that historic investment is paying off.

Rangers Women s Forward Bala Devi holds off Celtic defender Celtic v Rangers, Scottish Women s Premier League, Football, Celtic Park, Glasgow, Scotland, UK - 21 Apr 2021 

Financial Landscape

Commercial revenue continues to serve as the primary driver of revenue growth for women’s football clubs and leagues.

The assistant referee holds up the flag for a substitution during the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup France 

Fan Engagement

Women’s football is experiencing a surge in popularity. Attendance figures for leagues are rising and high-profile matches are being increasingly played in larger stadiums, drawing record crowds.

Caroline Graham Hansen of FC Barcelona takes a selfie with fans at the end of the UEFA Women's Champions League Semi Final First Leg

Players

Clubs are investing in their women’s teams and as the game professionalises further and sporting demands increase, player well-being will need to be a priority.

Montclair, New Jersey, United St Jennifer Cudjoe 6 Gotham FC kicks the ball during the National Womens Soccer League

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Women's Football Benchmarking Report

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