Women’s Football Set to Conquer Top 5 Sports Ranking by 2030

Table of Contents

1. Women’s Football Set to Conquer Top 5 Sports Ranking by 2030
2. Female Fanbase Dominance and Broadcast Boom
3. Sponsorship Opportunities Abound
4. Industry Leaders Voice Optimism
5. Current Standing and Growing Momentum
6. Strategic Investments Signal Confidence
7. Disney+ Becomes New Home of Women’s Champions League in Europe
8. Financial Growth and Attendance Trends
9. Switzerland and UK Lead Fanbase Growth
10. Global Fanbase and Participation surges
11. Key Growth Statistics
12. the Enduring Appeal of Women’s Football
13. Frequently Asked Questions about Women’s Football
14. What are the key marketing strategies needed to successfully tap into the projected 800 million women’s football fans by 2030?
15. Women’s Football Fans to Hit 800 Million by 2030: A Game-Changing Forecast
16. The Rise of Women’s Football Fandom: An Overview
17. Key Drivers Behind the Exponential Growth
18. Geographical Hotspots for Fan Growth
19. Impact on the Football Industry
20. Increased Sponsorship Opportunities
21. Broadcasting and Media Rights
22. Merchandise and Retail
23. Growing influence on Women’s Soccer
24. Case Study: FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023™
25. Challenges and Opportunities
26. practical Tips for Maximizing Fan engagement
27. Future trends
28. Conclusion

London, Jun 17, 2025 – A new report indicates that women’s football is on track to become one of the world’s top five sports by 2030. This surge is fueled by a projected 38% increase in its global fan base, reaching over 800 million people. The study, conducted by Nielsen Sports in collaboration with PepsiCo, highlights the phenomenal growth and untapped potential of the sport.

Female Fanbase Dominance and Broadcast Boom

The report, titled “Undervalued to Unstoppable,” reveals that approximately 60% of women’s football fans are projected to be female, distinguishing it as one of the few sports with a predominantly female following. Major tournaments are anticipated to experience a 30% surge in global broadcast audiences by 2030, amplifying the sport’s reach.

Pro Tip: Follow women’s football leagues and tournaments for the latest updates and matches.

Sponsorship Opportunities Abound

While sponsorship deals for the 2023 Women’s World Cup tripled compared to 2019, the study indicates that only a small portion of global sponsorship budgets are allocated to women’s football. Researchers emphasize that this presents a significant prospect, considering women are expected to control over 75% of household purchasing decisions by 2028.

Industry Leaders Voice Optimism

“We have long believed in the potential of women’s football, and today, we’re no longer just tracking progress, we’re witnessing a breakthrough,” stated Samantha Lamberti, Managing Director of Nielsen Sports International. “From media rights to sponsorship and fan engagement, this is no longer a case of future promise but present value.”

Current Standing and Growing Momentum

Women’s football already ranks among the top 10 most-followed sports worldwide. Viewership of the U.S.-based National Women’s Soccer League championship saw an 18% increase last year, underscoring the sport’s escalating popularity.

Strategic Investments Signal Confidence

Disney+ recently secured a deal to broadcast Women’s champions League matches across Europe. Alexis Ohanian, Reddit co-founder and husband of tennis star Serena Williams, acquired a stake in Women’s Super League champions Chelsea last month, highlighting increasing investment in the sport.

Financial Growth and Attendance Trends

Deloitte reported a 34% rise in WSL revenues during the 2023-24 season.Thay forecast WSL clubs’ total revenue will reach a record £100 million ($135.9 million) in the 2025-26 season. While WSL attendance dipped after its 2023-24 peak following the 2023 Women’s World Cup, another rise is expected after the upcoming European Championship in Switzerland.

Switzerland and UK Lead Fanbase Growth

Nielsen’s data indicates a surge in interest surrounding major tournaments. Before the Euros, Switzerland’s women’s football fanbase grew by 22% in 2024.interest in the UK increased by 15% in the two years following England’s Euro 2022 victory.

Global Fanbase and Participation surges

Women’s football has seen a 60% increase in female fans over the past five years, with China, Brazil, and India experiencing the most significant growth. Participation rates have mirrored this trend, with China reporting a 300% increase. Europe has also seen significant growth in participation, particularly in France (150%), Spain (95%), the Netherlands (25%), and the UK (24%) as 2019.

Did You Know? The 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup is scheduled to be held in Brazil.

Key Growth Statistics

Metric	Percentage Increase
Global Fan Base (Projected by 2030)	38%
Global Broadcast Audience (Projected by 2030)	30%
WSL Revenue Increase (2023-24)	34%
Female Fan increase (Past 5 Years)	60%

the Enduring Appeal of Women’s Football

The rising popularity of women’s football reflects a broader societal shift towards gender equality and increased visibility for female athletes. The dedication, skill, and sportsmanship displayed by these athletes resonate with fans worldwide, inspiring a new generation of players and supporters.

Moreover, the accessibility and affordability of attending women’s football matches contribute to its growing fanbase, making it a family-friendly entertainment option.The positive impact of role models in women’s football cannot be overstated, as they empower young girls to pursue their dreams and break down gender stereotypes.