Global Women’s 7-a-side series secures $100m investment

A groundbreaking development in women's football has emerged with the launch of World Sevens Football (W7F), a global seven-a-side series backed by a substantial $100 million investment over the next five years. The inaugural event is scheduled from May 21st-23rd, 2025, in Estoril, Portugal, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of the sport.

W7F is set to introduce a series of high-stakes, invitational "grand slam" tournaments, with each event featuring eight professional teams competing for a $5 million prize pool. The champions will receive $2.5 million, a figure that surpasses the prize money of many existing competitions in women’s football. The first tournament will be broadcast live on DAZN, ensuring global accessibility and maximizing viewership.

The series is the brainchild of U.S.-based philanthropist Jennifer Mackesy, co-owner of NJ/NY Gotham FC. It is guided by a player advisory council featuring former internationals such as Tobin Heath and Caroline Seger. Aly Wagner, a former U.S. international and co-founder of Bay FC, serves as the chief of strategy, reinforcing the initiative's commitment to leveraging experienced leadership within women's football.

The launch of W7F aligns with a broader trend of increasing investment and innovation in women's sports. The substantial prize money highlights the growing commercial potential of women’s football, with investors recognizing the sport's increasing viewership and fan engagement. The seven-a-side format offers a fresh perspective, emphasizing high-intensity, action-packed matches tailored for modern audiences. Shorter formats in sports have proven successful in attracting younger demographics, aligning with shifting consumption habits.

The introduction of W7F presents significant commercial opportunities. With a high-profile investor group and substantial backing, the competition is likely to attract top-tier talent and clubs, elevating its profile and marketability. The decision to partner with DAZN indicates a strategic move toward digital streaming, tapping into an increasingly dominant segment of the sports media landscape.

The timing of the inaugural event, just six weeks before Euro 2025, has raised questions about scheduling and player welfare. Some national team coaches may have concerns about fatigue and injury risks ahead of a major tournament. Organisers have attempted to address these issues by designing a format that includes shorter matches and rolling substitutions, ensuring that players are not overburdened.

W7F represents a bold and ambitious venture that could significantly influence the commercial and structural dynamics of women's football. With strong financial backing, a player-driven approach, and a clear strategy for engaging global audiences, the series is set to become a major addition to the sporting calendar.