UEFA Women's Euro 2025: A New Peak for UK Women's Football

As we arrive in July, the excitement for the UEFA Women's EURO 2025 is reaching fever pitch. Set to kick off on July 2nd in Switzerland, this 14th edition of the tournament promises to be a landmark event, not just for European football but particularly for the thriving women's game in the UK. With record prize money and over 550,000 tickets already sold, it's clear the momentum generated by previous tournaments continues to build, driving unprecedented growth and participation at all levels.

Maddli, the spirited Saint Bernard puppy, has been unveiled as the official UEFA Women's EURO 2025 mascot. Maddli, whose name is inspired by Madeleine Boll, the first ever female licensed footballer in Switzerland, is a spirited Saint Bernard puppy with a big heart and even bigger dreams!

The Road to Switzerland: England and Wales Make Their Mark

From a UK perspective, Euro 2025 is particularly thrilling with both England and Wales securing their spots.

England, as the reigning European champions, qualified automatically by finishing in the top two of their League A group. The Lionesses, despite some recent squad changes with key retirements and withdrawals, remain a formidable force. Their journey through qualification showcased their resilience, and with influential players like Lauren James just back from injury and poised to shine, they are set to defend their title fiercely in a challenging Group D alongside France, the Netherlands, and Wales.

For Wales, this tournament marks a historic milestone. They have qualified for their first-ever major tournament, achieving this incredible feat by overcoming the Republic of Ireland in a gripping play-off final. Their presence in Group D, alongside the likes of England and France, is a testament to years of dedication and perseverance within Welsh football. This achievement is not just about the elite game; it’s a powerful symbol of progress that is being celebrated across the nation, with initiatives like the "Ein Crys Cymru" tour engaging communities and inspiring the next generation of players.

A Legacy of Growth: Igniting Participation from Grassroots Up

The success of the Lionesses at Euro 2022, and their subsequent run to the World Cup final in 2023, have been monumental catalysts for the women's game in the UK. We've seen this positive impact reflected in our own observations and in the incredible statistics now emerging.

Since 2020, participation in women's and girls' football has surged by an astounding 56% across England. This isn't just about professional leagues; it's a transformation at the grassroots:

• Increased Access: 77% of schools now offer girls equal access to football, a significant 14% increase.
• New Players: Over 68,000 more girls have started playing football since the Lionesses' Euro success.
• More Teams: The 2022-23 season alone saw nearly 1,500 new women's and girls' teams registered.
• Talent Development: 73 'emerging talent centres' have been established, and there's been a remarkable increase in players from under-represented groups (127%) and economically deprived areas (112%).
• Coaching and Officiating: The growth extends to the backbone of the sport, with female coaches increasing by 88% and female referees by 113%.

Beyond the numbers, the visibility and interest in the women's game are at an all-time high. Attendances in the Women's Super League have soared by 239% since 2021, and the Women's FA Cup final has consistently sold out Wembley. This heightened profile, coupled with government investments in facilities and a commitment to equal access in schools, is creating a sustainable pathway for young girls to fall in love with football.

This growth echoes the sentiments we explored in our previous blogs, highlighting the increasing prominence of women's football:

• Here Come the Girls: The Growth of Women's Football (2022)
• Pioneering Progress: How the FIFA Women's World Cup Ignited a Transformation in Women's Football (2023)

As the UEFA Women's Euro 2025 kicks off, it serves as another powerful testament to the incredible journey of women's football in the UK. The success of our national teams on the European stage is not just about trophies; it's about inspiring a generation, fostering a love for the beautiful game, and ensuring that every girl has the opportunity to play, develop, and dream big.

We'll be watching closely, cheering on both England and Wales, and celebrating every moment of what promises to be a fantastic tournament!