New Study Reveals Financial Troubles Threaten Future of Women’s Football Clubs
A new study into the financial health of professional women’s football clubs in England has raised concerns about the future of the sport unless significant changes are made to governance structures and league design. The study, which is the first of its kind to analyze the financial health of any professional women’s sports league worldwide, provides crucial insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the profession.
The research, published in the Sport, Business and Management: An International Journal, was conducted by researchers from the University of Portsmouth. They examined the financial data of 14 English Women’s Super League (WSL) clubs between 2011 and 2019, analyzing 73 annual accounts. The study highlights critical concerns about the league’s financial sustainability and proposes a comprehensive roadmap for its development.
While women’s football has experienced increased attendances, media coverage, commercial partnerships, and mainstream interest, with club revenue increasing by 590% during the pre-COVID-19 period of 2011 to 2019, the report uncovers a darker reality. Club debt has skyrocketed by a staggering 1,351%, indicating an alarming trend that could jeopardize the league’s financial stability and the longevity of clubs.
Dr. Christina Philippou, Principal Lecturer at the University of Portsmouth, emphasizes the research’s importance in guiding stakeholders in the women’s game. She acknowledges the recent review of women’s football led by Karen Carney, the growing attention from the Football Association, and increasing commercial and broadcaster interest, which all point to financial opportunities that need exploration and potential problems that should be addressed proactively.
Apart from financial concerns, the study also raises concerns about a group of dominant clubs that may threaten the long-term sporting integrity of the league. While certain clubs have established themselves as powerhouses in terms of both financial resources and sporting success, this trend risks creating a lack of competitive balance within the league.
To safeguard the financial health of WSL clubs and promote sporting competition, the researchers propose a series of recommendations, including revenue distribution, licensing criteria, rewards, and diversity on boards. These measures aim to capitalize on the positive momentum gained in recent years and guide the league towards a more sustainable future.
Dr. Beth Clarkson, a visiting senior lecturer at the University of Portsmouth, emphasizes the importance of analysing the past to move forward. The study is the first in the world to provide in-depth financial analysis of any professional women’s sports league and offers actionable steps for the Women’s Super League and the Football Association to support their strategic direction. This support will enable them to capitalize on the success of the England national team and leverage the growing commercial interest in the women’s game.
The study underlines the urgent need for women’s football to navigate its financial landscape carefully. By implementing the study’s recommendations and adopting a holistic approach to financial health, the WSL has the potential to not only overcome current challenges but to thrive sustainably, creating a brighter future for the game and its dedicated fans. The findings of this study will undoubtedly be a wake-up call for all stakeholders involved in women’s football, urging them to play an active role in securing the sport’s long-term success.
