The titles Women’s Super League and Women’s Championship could undergo changes once the top two tiers of women’s football in England are operated independently from the Football Association.
While there are no immediate intentions to modify the names, the organization that will manage both leagues starting in the 2024-25 season is remaining open to the possibility and does not dismiss potential adjustments after next summer.
NewCo, the interim name for the organization that will oversee both leagues, is expected to officially take control of the WSL and Championship before the new season begins in September, following months of legal preparations for the transition.
Previously managed by the FA, the leagues have long been eyed by the governing body for a shift to a separate entity similar to the men’s Premier League or EFL. NewCo will be owned and run by all 23 clubs from the WSL and Championship, with Nikki Doucet, a former Nike director, serving as CEO. The FA will retain a golden share in the organization, although the exact percentage remains undisclosed.
The NewCo board is reportedly set to convene for its inaugural meeting in September, with the first gathering of shareholders likely happening in October. Plans are underway to establish both a fan advisory group and a player advisory group.
NewCo has appointed Chelsea’s commercial director Zarah Al-Kudcy as chief revenue officer, and is close to finalizing hires for a chief football officer and head of communications.
Launched in 2011 as a single-tier league, the WSL faced a rebranding prior to the 2018-19 season when it was previously known as WSL 2 after its inception in 2014. NewCo is reportedly not planning any significant changes for the upcoming season to ensure a seamless transition; however, adjustments for 2025 and beyond could be considered following an extensive revenue review.
after newsletter promotion
A name for NewCo is nearing finalization. It has been reported that a reference to 1971, the year the 50-year ban on women playing football on affiliated pitches in England was lifted, was initially considered, but this option has now been dismissed.
