Islamabad, Mar 19 2025: Despite increasing global attention on women’s soccer, most players and teams continue to face financial challenges due to limited resources and investment.
The annual report released by FIFA highlighted persistent inequalities in women’s football, expanding its scope to 86 leagues and 669 teams for a broader perspective.
The analysis focused on six key areas: governance, financial landscape, sporting development, fan engagement, digital presence, and player-related concerns.
The report grouped leagues into three tiers based on competitions, FIFA World Cup representation, and national federation budgets.
Findings revealed that the average gross salary across all tiers stood at $10,900, though this figure was influenced by 16 clubs in the top tier, where players earned an average of over $50,000.
The overall average salary for top-tier teams was $24,030—insufficient to sustain players in many regions.
The financial picture remains bleak, with top-tier leagues generating an average revenue of $4.4 million but spending approximately $7.6 million.
Lower-tier leagues reported even larger gaps, with an average revenue of $76,000 against $182,000 in expenses. FIFA did not disclose details of individual clubs within each tier.
The report found only 22% of clubs had women coaches, while 91% of top-tier leagues secured broadcast deals, compared to 32% in the lowest tier.
Sponsorship disparities were also evident, with just 42% of third-tier teams having a title sponsor, compared to 69% in the top tier.
In an effort to boost the sport, FIFA has introduced two new international tournaments: the Women’s Champions Cup in 2026 and the Women’s Club World Cup in 2028.
The first edition of the latter will feature 19 teams and take place in January-February 2028.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino stressed sustained investment, pledging tailored programs to support stakeholders and professionalize women’s soccer.
