FIFA has introduced new regulations requiring every team in its women’s tournaments to include at least one female head or assistant coach, with a minimum of two women on the bench, as part of a broader push to increase female representation in coaching.
The rule will take effect across youth and senior competitions, including upcoming under-17 and under-20 Women’s World Cups, following concerns about the low number of women in coaching roles—highlighted by just 12 female head coaches at the 2023 Women’s World Cup.
FIFA officials say the move aims to accelerate pathways and visibility for women in the sport, with hopes of significantly improving representation by the 2027 tournament in Brazil.
