In 1957, a Swiss newspaper ridiculed a women’s football match as more circus than sport. Fast forward to 2025, and Switzerland is hosting one of the most significant events in the footballing calendar: the Women’s European Championship. It marks a defining moment in the evolution of the game, from decades of marginalization to mainstream prominence.
Women’s football in Switzerland has followed a familiar arc – from outright hostility to slow acceptance and, finally, progress. Women were barred from playing organised 11-a-side matches until the late 1960s, and it took until 1993 for the women’s league to be fully integrated into the national football association. This was years after the last Swiss canton granted women the right to vote. Hosting Euro 2025 is not just a sporting milestone but a cultural one, a symbol of how far the game – and society – has come.
Despite lacking the infrastructure of footballing giants, Switzerland has sold more tickets than Euro 2022 even before the first whistle. This is a triumph for a country where women’s football still fights for space and legitimacy. The Swiss squad, led by standout players like Lia Wälti, is unpredictable – rich in talent but facing issues like injuries, defensive frailty, and uncertain tactics. Yet, the home advantage and a favourable group could inspire a deep tournament run.
Elsewhere, Spain enter as favourites, thanks to a deeply embedded football identity, a strong coaching tradition, and a pipeline of talent from youth academies and regional competitions. While England, Germany, and France have impressive players, they often lack the cohesive identity that Spain exudes. Many teams still lean heavily on individual brilliance rather than tactical systems.
That imbalance is a reflection of a sport still in its developmental phase, where elite talent has surged ahead of coaching and infrastructure. At Euro 2025, success may hinge on fitness, spontaneity, and players who can deliver moments of magic.
European club dominance has reshaped the global talent map. The top leagues, particularly in Spain and England, now draw stars from all over the world. American players are increasingly choosing European clubs over the NWSL, a shift underscored by the recent abolishment of the player draft in the U.S.
Yet, the boom faces a test. Viewer interest appears to be dipping, with surveys showing waning intent to watch this tournament compared to the 2023 World Cup. Domestic league audiences are also falling. International tournaments remain key drivers of visibility and engagement.
This summer is more than a celebration of how far women’s football has come – it’s a chance to ensure its momentum continues. The challenge now is to transform moments of inspiration into lasting legacy.
