FIFPRO report reveals challenges amid growth in women's football

At first glance, women's football appears to be thriving, with a recent report from FIFPRO, the global players' union, projecting worldwide revenue to surpass $1 billion (€894 million) by 2027. This growth is underscored by the upcoming World Cup in Brazil, which will be the first hosted in South America and is anticipated to be the largest and most-watched women's tournament to date.

The positive momentum continues with the U17 Women's World Cup taking place in Morocco, marking its fifth consecutive year. Notable teams such as Germany, France, Spain, Brazil, the United States, and defending champions North Korea are set to compete in the 2026 edition, further enhancing the tournament's reputation. US head coach Ciara Crinion expressed excitement about the game's trajectory, emphasizing the increasing competitiveness and seriousness of youth tournaments.

Historic achievements are also on the horizon, with Puerto Rico, Australia, and Argentina making their World Cup debuts. For Puerto Rico, this qualification is particularly significant, as it marks the first time any football team from the territory has reached a World Cup. Head coach Andres Mirabelli highlighted the pride in being the first team to qualify, aided by a strong diaspora in the United States, which is a leading region for women's football. FIFPRO reports that the average salary for female players in North America is approximately $5,940 (€5,547) per month, significantly higher than in other regions.

However, despite these advancements, many professional female players struggle to make a living from the sport. The FIFPRO report reveals that a substantial number of players earn below minimum wage, with only 66% receiving year-round salaries. The global average salary for female players stands at $2,600 (€2,300) per month, but this figure varies widely, with Eastern Europe averaging $880 and Africa just $432, while North America remains the outlier.

FIFPRO's head of research and strategy for women's football, Frankie Brown, pointed out that the disparities in pay are not only between the top leagues and the rest but also exist within leagues themselves. Some teams operate professionally, offering reasonable wages, while others rely on amateur contracts, leaving players unpaid.

The report also highlights the psychological stress many players face, with nearly half considering leaving the sport early, primarily due to mental health concerns. Alex Culvin, FIFPRO's director of women's football, noted that the pressures accompanying the sport's growth, including increased workloads and social media abuse, are not matched by adequate support systems from clubs. The organization is advocating for mandatory mental health support that prioritizes player wellbeing over performance metrics.

Advocating for minimum standards in women's football

FIFPRO is urging FIFA to establish minimum standards for women's football, covering contracts, pensions, and health provisions. This call for reform echoes the labor agreement reached by the WNBA in 2026, which set a precedent for female athletes advocating for better pay and conditions.

While there are positive signs, such as rising average salaries for some players, the report emphasizes the need to address the vast pay disparities across regions. Culvin remarked on the imbalance in conditions, particularly in Europe, where the differences between eastern and western leagues are stark. Closing these gaps is essential for the sport's overall development.

Germany aims to lead by example in improving women's football standards, especially with the 2027 World Cup on the horizon and the upcoming Euros in 2029. Although salaries in the women's Bundesliga are competitive, averaging around €48,000 per year for the 2023-24 season, structural development remains in its early stages. Recent regulations require Bundesliga teams to employ full-time coaching staff, a step towards professionalizing the league.

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Nicole Anyomi, a player who recently transferred to London City Lionesses, noted the significant difference in resources and staff between clubs, highlighting the importance of professional support for player development. As the game continues to grow, addressing these disparities becomes increasingly urgent.

Ultimately, the report underscores a critical message: as women's football expands, the need for equitable support systems and structures is paramount. Culvin's assertion that players are united by their precarious situations emphasizes the necessity for effective redistribution systems within the sport, ensuring that growth benefits all players and contributes to a sustainable ecosystem for women's football.