World Sevens Football: Global women’s seven-a-side series to start in May
World Sevens Football is in talks with leading clubs to discuss a new 7-person women’s football series scheduled to begin in May.
The matches in the new “Revolutionary Grand Slam Series” will be played on half of the typical football field and involve both halves and have extra time to win.
World Sevens (W7F) is in conversation with the club, including the side from the English Women’s Premier League, but it has not yet confirmed which teams will be involved.
The first event is scheduled to be held in Estoril, Portugal from May 21 to 23 and will be broadcast live through streaming platform DAZN.
However, two clubs participating in the Women’s Champions League final in Lisbon on May 24 will not participate in the first edition.
The series has a $5 million (£3.85 million) bonus per game, backed by American philanthropist Jennifer Mackesy, co-owner of NWSL Club Gotham FC.
“World Sevens are designed to enhance the women’s game, providing players with a strong new platform to showcase their talents, develop their personal brands and provide economic opportunities in ways that truly reflect their value,” Mackesy said.
It is understood that the W7F will have a wider team to choose for each event and plans to play future games in the United States, Mexico, Asia and Europe.
Organizers said they put players in the “heart of the game” by establishing a player advisory committee led by former U.S. winger Tobin Heath, and included former England defender Anita Asante.
“We are working with the players to build the world seven-man football at the center of everything we do,” Asante added.
“This game offers another stage where players can shine while providing a great, potentially profitable opportunity. It’s football, but faster, bolder, and do it for the future.”
