Study finds ban on women’s football leads to £37.5m decrease in WSL contribution to UK economy
A recent study has revealed that the historical 50-year ban on women’s football in England has led to a significant economic impact, with the Women’s Super League (WSL) contributing £37.5 million less to the UK economy as a result of the ban. The ban, imposed by the Football Association in December 1921, deemed football “quite unsuitable for females” and was only lifted in 1971. The Play Gap report aimed to quantify the potential growth of the women’s game had the ban not been in place.
According to the study, the current WSL figures closely resemble attendances in men’s League One, and various growth scenarios have been modeled to estimate the potential impact. By estimating an increase in attendances, supply chains, TV revenue, and a projected £24.5 million rise in overall wages, the study concluded that the WSL would now be worth £123.2 million in wage contribution to the economy, compared to the current estimate of £85.7 million.
Dr. James Reade, a sports economist at the University of Reading and co-author of the study, highlighted that the women’s game is currently about 20 years behind men’s football, indicating significant progress since the formation of the Women’s Super League in 2010. The study projected different growth scenarios for the women’s game based on historical data from the Premier League, Championship, League One, and League Two.
One notable advantage for women’s football identified in the report is the ability to play matches at Premier League grounds. Teams like Arsenal, Manchester United, and Manchester City have been able to switch to men’s stadiums, significantly increasing their capacity and attendance numbers. In contrast, men’s teams often faced challenges in building new stadiums, limiting their growth potential over time.
The report also highlighted cultural perceptions surrounding female footballers, with a notable lack of awareness about professional female players among survey respondents. It found that 44% of respondents could not name a single professional female footballer, and 65% believed that female players are not promoted as role models compared to their male counterparts. Dr. Reade emphasized the importance of investment in women’s football to raise its profile and provide female players with the recognition they deserve.
Overall, the study shed light on the economic and cultural impacts of the historical ban on women’s football in the UK. By quantifying the potential growth and contribution of the Women’s Super League, it underscores the progress made in recent years while emphasizing the need for continued support and investment in women’s football to ensure its continued success and development.