Despite growing interest in women’s soccer, financial challenges remain widespread, with players and teams struggling for resources.
FIFA’s latest annual report highlights ongoing inequalities, expanding its scope to 86 leagues and 669 teams for a clearer picture of the sport’s condition.
The report classified leagues into three tiers, considering factors like senior-level competitions, World Cup representation, and national federation budgets.
Findings showed that the average gross salary across all tiers was $10,900, but figures were skewed by top-tier clubs paying over $50,000.
The average salary for top-tier players was $24,030—insufficient in many regions.
Financial challenges persist, with top-tier leagues generating $4.4 million on average but spending around $7.6 million.
Lower-tier leagues faced even greater struggles, earning an average of $76,000 while spending $182,000. FIFA did not disclose details of specific clubs.
Only 22% of surveyed clubs employed women as coaches. While 91% of top-tier leagues secured domestic broadcast deals, only 32% in the lowest tier had similar agreements.
Sponsorships also varied, with just 42% of third-tier teams having a title sponsor compared to 69% at the top.
FIFA introduced the Women’s Champions Cup in 2026 and the Women’s Club World Cup in 2028, hoping these competitions will drive more investment and growth in women’s soccer.