Will the Women's Super League Expand to 14 Teams from the 2026/27 Season?
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Synopsis
Exciting news for women's football! The Barclays Women’s Super League is set to expand from 12 to 14 teams in the 2026/27 season, marking a pivotal moment in the sport's evolution. This change aims to enhance competition and investment in women's football, promising thrilling matches ahead.
Key Takeaways
- Expansion of WSL to 14 teams starting in 2026/27.
- Up to three promotions from WSL2.
- Automatic relegation for the bottom WSL team.
- Introduction of a playoff for added excitement.
- Focus on enhancing investment and competition.
New Delhi, June 16 (NationPress) In a significant advancement for women’s football in England, clubs during the WSL Football shareholders’ meeting have cast their votes in favor of increasing the number of teams in the Barclays Women’s Super League (WSL) from 12 to 14 beginning in the 2026/27 season.
This decision, pending approval from The FA Board, signifies a crucial milestone in the ongoing development and professionalization of the women's game.
Since the league's foundation, the WSL has functioned with 12 teams; however, the forthcoming expansion indicates a rising interest, investment, and competitiveness within both the league and its broader structure. The new format will preserve a double round-robin system.
To support this expansion, up to three teams will be promoted from the Barclays Women’s Super League 2 (WSL2) at the conclusion of the 2025/26 season. The top two clubs from WSL2 will gain automatic promotion, while a playoff match will be organized between the 12th-placed WSL team and the 3rd-placed WSL2 team to secure the final position.
Beginning with the 2026/27 season, the WSL will implement automatic relegation for its bottom team, with the WSL2 champions stepping up to the WSL. A new playoff format will be introduced involving the 13th-placed WSL team and the WSL2 runners-up, adding an exciting new event to the women’s football calendar.
Nikki Doucet, CEO of WSL Football, stated: “In recent months, WSL Football has undertaken a comprehensive and consultative process, supported by research and analysis, exploring various options to advance the game and unlock its full potential. Our focus was to create a pathway that benefits the entire women's football pyramid, and we are confident that this evolution in women’s professional football will elevate minimum standards, foster distinction, and encourage investment across the board.
“Pending The FA Board's approval, expanding the BWSL to 14 teams will facilitate movement between leagues and throughout the pyramid, enhancing opportunities. The addition of a promotion/relegation playoff introduces a hallmark distinction for the women’s game, presenting a high-profile, high-stakes match.”
Point of View
I believe this expansion of the Barclays Women’s Super League is a crucial step towards enhancing the visibility and professionalism of women's football in England. It not only reflects the increasing interest in the sport but also emphasizes the necessity of supporting women's leagues to foster talent and competition.
NationPress
07/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Barclays Women’s Super League?
The Barclays Women’s Super League (WSL) is the top division of women's football in England, showcasing the best clubs and players in the country.
When will the expansion to 14 teams take place?
The expansion to 14 teams is set to commence in the 2026/27 season.
How will teams be promoted to the WSL?
Up to three teams will be promoted from the Barclays Women’s Super League 2 (WSL2), with the top two teams gaining automatic promotion and a playoff determining the final spot.
What changes will occur with relegation?
From the 2026/27 season, the bottom team in the WSL will be automatically relegated, while the WSL2 champions will be automatically promoted.
Who is overseeing this expansion?
Nikki Doucet, the CEO of WSL Football, has been leading the initiative, backed by extensive research and consultation.
