World Sevens Football, a high-profile seven-a-side women’s competition set to debut in Portugal in May, is bringing in a senior figure from Chelsea Women. Adrian Jacob, the Chelsea executive manager, is expected to take on the role of head of football for the new global series.
Jacob has been a key part of Chelsea Women’s success, spending 11 years with the club since initially joining as chairman. During his tenure, Chelsea dominated the English women’s game, securing seven Women’s Super League titles. His departure follows a period of leadership that included working alongside Paul Green, the club’s head of women’s football, and Emma Hayes, who coached Chelsea for 12 years before moving on to lead the USA women’s national team.
Reflecting on his time at Chelsea, Jacob expressed gratitude in a farewell message, describing his experience as an unforgettable journey. He acknowledged the contributions of colleagues, players, and various stakeholders, emphasizing the collective effort that made Chelsea Women a dominant force in football.
The World Sevens Football series is set to launch with its inaugural eight-team event from 21-23 May in Estoril, Portugal. The ambitious project has secured a significant financial commitment of $100 million over five years, with backing from philanthropist Jennifer Mackesy. Mackesy, known for her involvement in women’s football, is a co-owner of NWSL club Gotham FC and also holds a minority stake in Chelsea Women.
The competition will feature 30-minute matches with rolling substitutions, aiming to offer a fast-paced and dynamic spectacle. The streaming platform Dazn will broadcast the games live, bringing the action to a global audience. The prize fund for each event is set at $5 million, with the winning teams expected to receive $2.5 million, making it a highly lucrative opportunity for participating clubs.
While the competition has yet to confirm the teams that will take part, anticipation is building around its potential impact on women’s football. With a strong financial foundation and an innovative format, World Sevens Football aims to carve out a distinct place in the sport and provide new opportunities for players and clubs alike.
Jacob’s appointment as head of football signals the ambition behind the project, bringing in experienced leadership to shape the competition’s development. His extensive background in building a successful women’s football team will be an asset as the series establishes itself on the global stage.
As World Sevens Football prepares for its debut, it is expected to attract widespread interest from fans, players, and sponsors. The combination of high stakes, a fresh format, and top-level talent promises to make it a significant addition to the women’s football landscape.
