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With Wales heading to a first-ever major women’s football tournament this summer, a £1 million fund was launched to build on their success.
Rhian Wilkinson’s Wales have qualified for EURO 2025, which will be held in Switzerland this July – and will face the Netherlands, France, and reigning champions England in the group stage.
The Welsh Government funding will aim to use the team’s success to inspire future generations and boost sports participation across Wales.
The 16 projects set to benefit from funding have now been announced, and include screening events across Wales and the world; football engagement activities for young people; training and support packages for female coaches and referees; and cultural celebrations.
The hope is that the fund will promote women’s sport and boost participation, as well as promote Wales globally.
Which projects will receive funding?
Among the projects receiving funding are:
- Two inclusive, one-day street football tournaments for women.
- A dedicated Women’s Coaching Network and a campaign to dramatically increase the number of women and girls in football refereeing.
- Murals in communities where Wales players were born and began their football journeys.
- Internationally focused classroom resources for primary schools across Wales and beyond to promote language learning, international collaboration, and engage pupils in women’s football.
- A poet-in-residence to accompany the Welsh football team during their campaign to record and celebrate the team’s journey.
- An international programme celebrating Welsh culture on a global stage, including performances and workshops by female Welsh artists in Switzerland.
Wales’ sports minister, Jack Sargeant, said: “This investment is not just about celebrating Cymru Women’s historic Euro 2025 qualification, it’s an opportunity to create lasting change across Wales.
“From community murals to international cultural showcases, these innovative projects will inspire the next generation, promote Welsh values globally, and create meaningful pathways for women and girls in football.”
He continued: “This Team Wales approach enhances our tournament presence and builds a legacy that will benefit communities long after the final whistle. Together, we’re using this platform to champion equality, celebrate Welsh culture, and demonstrate that Wales achieves more when we work as one.”
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