Author: Adriana Wehrens

In 2025, women’s football entered uncharted financial territory. Transfer records fell three times in a single summer, and global spending soared by more than 700% in just four years — clear proof that the women’s game has become a global business as much as a sport.

The rising success of women’s football hasn’t erased the post-career instability faced by many of its athletes. Many must plan for life beyond the pitch while still playing, often balancing education, part-time work, or future career training. Post-football paths now include coaching, media, governance, entrepreneurship, and other industries. While opportunities are expanding, challenges persist.

Social media has become a powerful tool for engagement in the sports world and women’s football is no exception. As the game continues to grow globally, clubs are increasingly turning to platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube to expand their reach and connect with fans. Yet, the landscape remains uneven: while some clubs boast massive followings and a strong digital presence, others are struggling to find their footing.

After decades of lacking a professional outlet for female footballers at home, Canada has finally launched its first independent professional women’s football league: the Northern Super League (NSL). Officially kicking off in April 2025, the NSL features six founding clubs—Montreal Roses FC, Vancouver Rise FC, AFC Toronto, Ottawa Rapid FC, Calgary Wild FC, and Halifax Tides FC—and aims to create a sustainable, business-focused model for growth.

Chelsea FC is making headlines as the club is able to report a positive balance sheet at the end of the financial year thanks to the sale of its women’s team to the club’s parent company. As a result, the west Londoners complied with the Premier League’s Financial Fair Play rules.