England's head coach, Sarina Wiegman, has once again championed the call for increased investment in women's football, emphasizing the need for the country to maintain its position as a "trailblazer" in the sport. Her remarks came during a reception at 10 Downing Street, where the Lionesses were celebrated for their triumphant Euro 2025 campaign.
The Lionesses, fresh off their Euro 2025 victory against Spain in Basel, Switzerland, attended the Downing Street reception hosted by Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner and Sports Minister Stephanie Peacock. The event was marked by St. George's flags and bunting. Wiegman addressed the attendees, expressing gratitude for the recognition and highlighting the surreal feeling of their achievement.
Wiegman stressed the importance of building on the existing momentum in women's football. She reminded the government of the letter the team sent following their previous Euro win, urging them to improve access to football for all girls. While acknowledging the steps taken, she insisted that more needs to be done. The government is expected to announce a new package of measures aimed at boosting grassroots football.
Increased investment is essential for several reasons. It ensures that girls and women have access to quality coaching, facilities, and opportunities to participate in the sport. Investment also helps to develop the infrastructure of women's football, from grassroots clubs to professional leagues. This creates a sustainable ecosystem that supports the growth of the game at all levels. Moreover, adequate funding is necessary to attract and retain talented players and coaches, ensuring that England remains competitive on the world stage.
Wiegman's advocacy extends beyond just financial investment. She emphasizes the need for equality at all levels of the game. This includes not only pay parity but also investment in all aspects of the sport, from facilities to technical development. She believes that a holistic approach is necessary to create a truly level playing field for women's football.
The Lionesses' success has already had a significant impact, inspiring young girls and changing perceptions of women's football. Wiegman recognizes the power of the team's performances to drive positive change. She understands that their visibility and achievements can help to break down barriers and create more opportunities for future generations.
Looking ahead, Wiegman has made it clear that she is committed to continuing her work with the Lionesses. She has expressed her determination to win the 2027 World Cup, and is happy with the investment made in women's football in England. She believes that the team can continue to grow and improve, and she is excited about the future of women's football in England.
