The FIFA Council has approved new regulations aimed at increasing the presence of women in coaching roles across women’s football competitions.
Under the new rules, every team taking part in FIFA women’s tournaments must include at least two female staff members on the bench. In addition, at least one of those must serve as either a head coach or assistant coach. The requirement will apply to all FIFA women’s competitions, including youth and senior national team events as well as club tournaments.
The policy will come into effect later this year, beginning with the FIFA Under-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland. It will also be implemented at the U-17 Women’s World Cup and the Women’s Champions Cup, and will extend to the Women’s World Cup scheduled to take place in Brazil in 2027.
“There are simply not enough women in coaching today. We must do more to accelerate change by creating clearer pathways, expanding opportunities, and increasing the visibility for women on our sidelines,” said Jill Ellis, FIFA’s Chief Football Officer.
The move is part of FIFA’s broader effort to ensure that the rapid growth of women’s football is matched by greater representation of women in leadership and technical roles. Despite the sport’s expansion, coaching positions are still largely held by men. At the 2023 Women’s World Cup, only 12 of the 32 head coaches were women.
FIFA says the new regulations will be supported by ongoing investment in coaching development. These efforts include mentorship programmes, education scholarships, and initiatives designed to train female coach educators. Since 2021, nearly 800 female coaches from more than 70 member associations have received support through FIFA’s scholarship programme.
By combining new rules with long-term development strategies, FIFA aims to create more opportunities for women to reach the highest levels of coaching in the sport.
