In a landmark commitment to women’s soccer, UEFA has pledged an astounding €1 billion ($1.08 billion) investment over the next six years to develop the women’s game across Europe at all levels. This monumental financial boost is part of UEFA’s comprehensive “Unstoppable” strategy, which aims to make football the most played team sport for girls and women in every European country.
Ambitious Goals for Women’s Soccer Growth
UEFA’s aspirational targets include doubling the number of fully professional women’s leagues from three to six and increasing the number of professional female players from 3,000 to 5,000 by 2030. The governing body also seeks to establish clear pathways for women and girls to play, coach, and referee from the grassroots level upwards.
It is our promise to keep investing and collectively lead the game forward, with all European national associations, leagues, clubs, players, fans and partners part of our journey.
– Nadine Kessler, UEFA’s director of women’s soccer
Overcoming Obstacles and Challenges
Despite the ambitious plans, Kessler acknowledged that there are still “persistent challenges and obstacles to overcome” in attracting more girls and women to soccer. The previous UEFA women’s soccer strategy in 2019 set a goal of 2.5 million registered players across its 55 member federations, but the latest figures show only 1.6 million registrations last season, highlighting the work that still needs to be done.
Disparity in Prize Money and Earnings
The financial gulf between men’s and women’s soccer remains stark. The total prize money for the Women’s Champions League this season is €24 million ($26 million), with €22 million ($23.9 million) of that being a subsidy from the men’s competition. In contrast, the 32 men’s Champions League clubs will share a minimum of €2.5 billion ($2.71 billion). Kessler noted that many female players “still struggle to make a viable living from the game.”
Growing Viewership and Engagement
Despite the challenges, women’s soccer has seen significant growth in viewership and engagement in recent years. The 2022 UEFA Women’s Euro final, where England triumphed over Germany, drew an impressive 50 million viewers. The 2023 Women’s Champions League final, featuring Barcelona’s thrilling 3-2 victory against Wolfsburg, attracted 5.1 million viewers.
Funding Distribution and Initiatives
A portion of UEFA’s billion-dollar investment will be distributed to its 55 member associations as part of the Hat Trick program, which is funded by the men’s European Championship. From 2024-2028, a total of €66 million ($71.6 million) will be allocated to members specifically for women’s soccer development.
Other initiatives under the “Unstoppable” strategy include:
- Enhancing coaching education and increasing the number of qualified female coaches
- Improving refereeing standards and promoting women in refereeing
- Developing and modernizing women’s soccer competitions at all levels
- Increasing visibility and exposure of women’s soccer through media partnerships and broadcast deals
- Promoting gender equality and inclusion in soccer governance and decision-making roles
Looking Ahead to a Brighter Future
UEFA’s substantial financial commitment and comprehensive strategy provide a strong foundation for the growth and development of women’s soccer in Europe. While challenges remain, the “Unstoppable” plan represents a significant step forward in closing the gap between men’s and women’s soccer and creating a more equitable and sustainable future for the sport.
As the women’s game continues to gain momentum, with increased investment, improved infrastructure, and growing fan engagement, the potential for women’s soccer to thrive and inspire future generations of players, coaches, and fans across Europe is immense. UEFA’s billion-dollar pledge is not just a financial boost, but a powerful statement of belief in the value and potential of women’s soccer.
