FA Unveils Controversial Overhaul Plans for Women's FA Cup
The Football Association has put forward a series of radical proposals aimed at transforming the Women's FA Cup, with plans to introduce seeded teams and a bracket system from the last 32 stage. These changes are designed to boost the competition's commercial appeal and revenue streams, according to documents sent to clubs and seen by the Guardian.
Key Proposals and Rationale
Under the new plans, the FA intends to seed the top four teams from the previous Women's Super League season, a move described as a temporary adjustment to reflect the current developmental stage of the women's football pyramid. This seeding would apply to clubs like Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United, and Manchester City, who have dominated the competition in recent years.
Additionally, the proposals include dispensing with the traditional draw after the last 32, instead implementing a 'road-to-Wembley bracket' that maps out teams' routes to the final. This approach, similar to formats used in World Cup tournaments, is intended to enhance storytelling and build excitement among fans and clubs alike.
The FA has emphasised that these changes are part of a broader strategy to grow the competition's commercial potential, with the goal of reinvesting funds back into women's football. An FA spokesperson stated, "We committed in our women's and girls' game strategy to review the Adobe Women's FA Cup, recognising the need to evolve the competition and strengthen its commercial potential."
Consultation and Opposition
However, the proposals have already sparked significant opposition from various clubs, particularly those in lower leagues. Club staff from Women's National League sides have expressed concerns that seeding top teams could reduce opportunities for smaller clubs to progress to the latter stages of the competition.
A consultation process is currently underway, with feedback being gathered from clubs, players, fans, and commercial partners. The FA plans to make a final submission to its board in April, after considering all responses. No decisions have been made yet, and the changes could potentially be implemented as early as next season.
Other Recommendations from the Review
The proposals stem from an FA-commissioned review of the competition, which was founded in 1970. Key findings from the review include:
- Maintaining the 'FA Cup' brand name due to its significant heritage.
- Keeping the final at Wembley Stadium, where it has been held since 2015.
- Avoiding additional rounds to protect player welfare, though the schedule of rounds could be adjusted to hold matches every other weekend from the last 32 to the quarter-finals.
- Proposing an 'entry tier review' for lower-league sides to enhance minimum stadium standards.
The FA believes that a bracketed draw will support operational planning and allow for better narrative development throughout the competition. A fan survey conducted as part of the review received approximately 6,000 responses, indicating strong interest in the future of the Women's FA Cup.
As discussions continue, the football community awaits the outcome of the consultation, which will shape the future of one of women's football's most historic tournaments.
