The top tier of English women’s football is set to undergo significant changes.
The Women’s Super League will expand from 12 to 14 clubs from the 2026–27 season, following votes by member clubs to enlarge the division while keeping promotion and relegation intact.
The decision brings an end to months of speculation over changes to the WSL’s format and cements a transparent pathway through the women’s football pyramid for clubs.
Under the new system, the top two teams in WSL 2 -(the second tier) will earn automatic promotion at the close of the 2025–26 campaign, and the third‑placed side in WSL 2 will face the bottom‑placed WSL club in a one‑off play‑off to decide who claims the final spot in the top flight.
By ensuring two automatic promotions and at least one relegation each season, the revised structure preserves competitive integrity, rewards on‑field success in the WSL 2, and opens up fresh opportunities for ambitious clubs at every level of the women’s game.
In response to the decision, the WSL have issued a statement emphasising their commitment to the growth and integrity of the entire women’s football pyramid.
The organisation underlined that this expansion is designed not merely to increase numbers but to drive standards, investment and excitement throughout the game.
The statement reads: “Our priority was to find a route that would benefit the whole women’s game pyramid, and we believe this next evolution of women’s professional football will raise minimum standards, create distinction and incentivise investment across the board.
“Subject to the approval from The FA Board, expanding the BWSL to 14 teams will stimulate movement between leagues and through the pyramid which increases opportunities.
“The introduction of a promotion/relegation playoff creates distinction for the women’s game and introduces a high‑profile, high stakes match.”
Earlier this year, Women’s Professional Leagues Limited (WPLL) – which operates both the WSL and the Women’s Championship – had explored a four‑season suspension of relegation from 2026 as part of wider discussions on expansion.
That idea, intended to help newly promoted teams establish themselves and attract investment, was ultimately shelved following feedback that underlined the importance of on‑field merit and the drama that relegation battles bring.
From the 2026–27 season, WSL 2 clubs will have even more to play for: two guaranteed promotion slots and the chance to earn a third via a high‑stakes play‑off. That means every point won inches a side closer to the top flight, where exposure, sponsorship and investment opportunities multiply.
Meanwhile, in the expanded 14‑club WSL, setablished WSL clubs will no longer be able to rely on an impending safety net – finishing bottom will continue to mean automatic relegation, but 13th place will also bring the threat of a play‑off.
The result of the changes is a league where every fixture matters, from the season’s opener to its closing day. More clubs battling on both fronts will ensure continuous excitement for supporters and broadcasters alike, while the clear, merit‑based pathway up the pyramid will help drive long‑term investment and ambition throughout the women’s game.
AP
(Editor: Paul Akhagbemhe)
