Invisible architects: How women are shaping the future of football

The cheers of the crowd, the strategic brilliance on the pitch, the tireless commitment behind the scenes - football is, at its core, a web of countless threads. While the spotlight is often on the players, a quiet revolution is taking place, driven by the increasing presence and influence of women in football.

More and more women are taking on coaching roles at all levels, bringing new perspectives and innovative strategies. Their understanding of player development, especially the unique needs of female athletes, is invaluable. In addition, women are taking on leadership roles in national associations and clubs, shaping policies and driving impactful initiatives. This includes advocating for better facilities, improved training programmes and more opportunities for women to participate.

The launch of FIFA's ground-breaking female coach educators' development pathway is an important step towards gender equality and women's empowerment in football. This programme inspires hope and passion and equips women with the knowledge, confidence and skills they need to succeed as coaches around the world.

Over two transformative years, female coaches will embark on an enriching journey - from exciting e-learning modules to dynamic on-site workshops, supported by expert mentors. This initiative not only promotes technical excellence, but also a determination to break down barriers and break stereotypes.

With its global expansion, this visionary pathway promotes diversity, resilience and the unwavering spirit of women in football, ensuring that the sport becomes a true reflection of equality, strength and relentless ambition.

Earlier this month, a workshop in Lisbon brought together 23 female technical experts who will play a pivotal role in the delivery of the pathway. With a shared passion for both the game and coach education the common goal is to inspire and empower the next generation of female coach educators globally.

The workshop was a chance for the technical experts to explore the content and bring their experiences to the table to help shape the evolution of the pathway moving forward.

The future of football is undeniably linked to the contributions of women. Their commitment, innovation and passion are essential to shaping a sport that is both competitive and inclusive. By fostering a supportive ecosystem for women in football, we unlock the full potential of the game and ensure a better, fairer future for all.

“We want to create a sustainable coach education pathway for female coaches, which is enriched with female coach educators, recognised for their quality, competence and knowledge."

Kelsey Byrne, Delivery Manager, Coaching Development Women’s Programme

"The workshop in Lisbon was designed to bring together 23 female Technical Experts, that shared our passion for both the game and coach education, to inspire and empower the next generation of female coach educators globally," added Byrne. "The technical experts moving forward will support in the co-delivery of the ‘Female coach educators' development pathway’ so the week was a chance for the Technical experts to explore the content and bring their experiences to the table to help shape the evolution of the pathway moving forward."