The Women’s Super League (WSL) faces a potential challenge to its £65m TV contract with Sky Sports and the BBC if proposals to suspend relegation from the top flight are implemented. The clubs are considering radical changes to the competition, including a pause on relegation starting from the 2026-27 season, as part of a broader plan to expand both the WSL and the Championship to 16 teams each. This proposal is set to be voted on at the end of the current season.
However, the WSL’s broadcasting contracts could complicate the situation. The agreement with Sky and the BBC, which runs for five years starting next season, includes provisions for a 12-team league with promotion and relegation. This contract can only be altered with the agreement of all parties involved. The TV deal, announced in October, is considered a landmark agreement for women’s football in England, as it is worth nearly double the previous deal.
Earlier this season, the WSL faced difficulties in selling TV rights, leading to the necessity of a 12-month contract extension on terms similar to the existing deal. However, after the Women’s Professional League Ltd (WPLL) took over operational control of the WSL from the Football Association, it quickly secured significant investments, including the broadcasting contract and a three-year title sponsorship deal for the league worth £45m.
Sky, the senior partner in the deal, is set to broadcast 118 WSL games each season, with 21 available on the BBC’s terrestrial channel. Sky is also given the option to air Championship games for the first time, many of which are expected to be available for free on its YouTube channel. Given that Sky broadcasts a significant majority of live televised women’s sports in the UK, the network is unlikely to oppose the expansion of the leagues. However, if relegation is suspended, they may demand changes to the terms of the deal.
The key issue for broadcasters and advertisers is that relegation battles add significant commercial value to televised games. Without relegation, there could be a scenario where some fixtures are seen as meaningless, potentially reducing the appeal for viewers and advertisers alike. This could create challenges for broadcasters, as it would limit the potential for high-stakes matches that draw attention.
The WPLL views the proposed suspension of relegation as part of a broader strategy to improve the league’s overall standards. In exchange for the pause on relegation, the WPLL envisions a boost in the minimum standards for player salaries, the expansion of academies, and upgrades to stadiums. The goal is to encourage owners to invest in the league and support its long-term growth.
While the WPLL has declined to comment on specific contractual matters, those involved in the discussions surrounding the restructuring have indicated that broadcasters would be consulted about any major changes to the league structure. The WSL’s broadcasters, including Sky and the BBC, have also refrained from commenting on the potential changes at this stage.
Overall, the WSL’s broadcasting deal plays a crucial role in its future success. Any changes to the league’s format, particularly regarding relegation, would need careful consideration of the financial implications for broadcasters and the commercial viability of the competition. If relegation is indeed suspended, a renegotiation of the contract may be necessary to ensure that the deal remains attractive to all parties involved.
