The UEFA Women's Champions League is kicking off, and the question on everyone's mind is: Will it get the visibility it deserves? Recent debates in Europe highlight a struggle for women's football to gain mainstream attention, even after successes like the European Championship.
Broadcasting Battles in Europe
Just before the Women's Champions League started, a major broadcaster announced they wouldn't be showing live matches until the semi-finals, despite holding the rights to broadcast one game per matchday. This decision sent a disheartening message to the women's football community, which has been fighting for decades for recognition.
After the recent European Championship in Switzerland, which saw record-breaking attendance figures both in stadiums and on television, it seemed as though women's football had finally broken through to the masses. However, some broadcasters are seemingly hesitant to invest in promoting the sport, even when German teams like FC Bayern and VfL Wolfsburg are competing against top international clubs.
The New Champions League Format
The Women's Champions League is entering a new era with a revamped format, mirroring the men's competition by introducing a league phase instead of the traditional group stage. This change guarantees clubs significantly more revenue, with UEFA doubling the total prize money to €37.7 million. Each of the 18 participating clubs will receive a starting bonus of €505,000, and a win in the league phase will earn them €60,000. The ultimate champions can take home over €2 million.
Will the Momentum Continue?
The Bundesliga has seen a near doubling of stadium attendance in the first five matchdays compared to last season. The hope is to maintain this momentum and translate the enthusiasm from major tournaments into everyday support for women's football.
VfL Wolfsburg's Coach Excited
Despite the broadcasting challenges, coaches like VfL Wolfsburg's Tommy Stroot are very excited about the competition. The team is eager to compete at the highest level and showcase their talent on the European stage.
Ultimately, the success of the Women's Champions League hinges on consistent visibility and investment. It's crucial for broadcasters and stakeholders to recognize the growing interest in women's football and provide the platform it needs to thrive.