WSL takeover finalized – here’s what’s different now
The chief executive of a newly formed independent company, now overseeing the top two tiers of English women’s football, believes it can elevate the game to “unprecedented levels.”
Women’s Professional Leagues Limited (WPLL) has taken control of the Women’s Super League and Women’s Championship, promising to usher in a “new era” for the sport.
Previously known as NewCo before the deal was finalized, WPLL will be led by former Nike director Nikki Doucet, who noted that English women’s football has seen “unprecedented growth” but has the potential to advance even further.
Doucet emphasized, “We are deeply committed to building on this momentum by creating a thriving environment that prioritizes player welfare and development, energizes a vibrant fan community, and fosters the sport’s growth.”
What are the immediate alterations?
Doucet now oversees England’s top two leagues and heads an organization owned by the clubs in each division.
Additional changes include the Premier League providing funding to the WPLL.
The WPLL operates independently from the Football Association and has full control over both leagues.
Each of the 23 clubs—12 in the WSL and 11 in the Championship—holds a stake in the WPLL.
The Premier League has granted the WPLL a £20 million interest-free loan and will assist with broadcasting, commercial, and football operations.
A new board has been established to manage the organization.
The FA maintains a “special share,” allowing it to claim a portion of the revenue once certain thresholds are met, which will be reinvested in grassroots women’s and girls’ football initiatives.
What else is on the horizon?
Firstly, the company is expected to undergo a name change soon and will not be known as WPLL for much longer.
The Premier League has a seat on the new board, but this arrangement will last only until the £20 million loan is repaid.
The WPLL will be responsible for negotiating a new broadcasting deal, as the current agreement with BBC Sport and Sky Sports is set to expire at the end of the 2024-25 season.
With full control in place, the WPLL can also alter the league’s structure, invest in new technology and officiating, and implement rule changes.
Who are the members of the new board?
Dawn Airey, who has managed the two leagues within the FA since 2019, is part of the new board of directors.
The board includes representatives from both the FA and the Premier League, as well as three non-executive directors:
– Sean Cornwell, former chief executive of Immediate Media
– Maria Raga Frances, former chief executive of Depop
– Malcolm Kpedekpo, an ex-professional footballer and non-executive director of the Scottish Football Association
Additionally, a new leadership team reporting to Doucet has been established, comprising a chief operating officer, interim chief marketing officer, chief football officer, and chief revenue officer.
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