LONDON — The English Women’s Super League (WSL) will expand from 12 to 14 teams starting in the 2026/27 season, following club approval. The move still awaits final clearance from the Football Association.

Under the new format, a promotion/relegation play-off will be introduced. While next season will see two teams automatically promoted from the second-tier WSL2 and a play-off between third in WSL2 and the bottom WSL team, the system will shift in 2026/27. Then, the bottom WSL team will be relegated automatically, and the second-bottom will face a play-off with the second-placed WSL2 side.

Nikki Doucet, CEO of Women’s Professional Leagues Limited, said the expansion will increase competitive opportunities and introduce a high-stakes match to boost visibility.

This is part of a 10-year strategy to improve women’s football, focusing on infrastructure, staffing, and youth development.

Despite a 34% revenue increase to £65 million in 2023/24 and a forecast of £100 million for next season, average attendance fell 10% to 6,642, as the Euro 2022 momentum waned.