[The UK government has given its full support to the recommendations put forward by former England midfielder Karen Carney in her review of domestic women’s soccer. This comes as a big win for the women’s football community, as the government has stressed the importance of “collectively seizing the moment and delivering sustained commercial success.”
Karen Carney’s independent review, titled ‘Raising The Bar: Reframing the opportunity in women’s football,’ was commissioned in September 2022 and recently published in July. The government’s official response to the review agrees that all ten of the strategic recommendations should be actioned, showing a commitment to driving positive change in the sport.
In efforts to move forward and implement the recommendations, the government plans to convene an “implementation group” consisting of key stakeholders such as the Football Association (FA) and NewCo, the new independent body set to run the Women’s Super League (WSL) and Women’s Championship from 2024/25. This group will come together in March to strategize and begin the process of enacting the proposed changes.
One of the key areas of focus in Carney’s review is the need for sustained commercial success in women’s football. This aligns with the government’s emphasis on driving growth and recognition for the sport, paving the way for increased investment and opportunities for players, teams, and organizations within the women’s football landscape.
The government’s backing of Carney’s recommendations is a significant step in the right direction for women’s football in the UK. It signifies a unified effort to address challenges and unlock the potential of the sport, laying the groundwork for a more equitable and prosperous future for women’s soccer.
The endorsement from the UK government also signals a shift in the broader perception and support for women’s football, highlighting the importance of elevating the sport to new heights and creating a more inclusive and thriving environment for all involved.
The government’s commitment to actioning the strategic recommendations underscores a dedication to fostering positive change and setting a precedent for other countries and governing bodies to follow suit in championing women’s football.
As the implementation group prepares to convene in March, there is a palpable sense of optimism and momentum within the women’s football community. With the support of the government and a clear roadmap for progress, the future is looking brighter than ever for women’s soccer in the UK. The potential for sustained commercial success, increased visibility, and enhanced opportunities is on the horizon, signaling a new chapter for the sport.
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