How the 2026 FIFA World Cup Could Revolutionize the NWSL Growth Trajectory

Summary – NWSL commissioner Jessica Berman outlines strategic plans to leverage the domestic 2026 FIFA World Cup to elevate women’s soccer in the United States.,

Article –

The announcement of the 2026 FIFA World Cup being hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico marks a monumental moment in global soccer, with the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) poised to be a major domestic beneficiary. NWSL commissioner Jessica Berman has outlined strategic plans to leverage this event, especially the U.S.-hosted matches, to significantly elevate the league’s profile and impact.

Setting the Stage

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the first to feature 48 teams, and matches will occur in iconic U.S. stadiums drawing massive attendance and global viewership. Parallel to this, the NWSL, established in 2012, has steadily grown but faces challenges in expanding its fan base and securing long-term investments. Since becoming commissioner in early 2022, Jessica Berman has focused on strategic growth initiatives, with the World Cup offering a critical platform to advance these goals.

The Turning Point

Berman’s approach centers on capitalizing on the heightened soccer enthusiasm during the World Cup period by:

• Boosting the NWSL’s visibility
• Attracting new sponsors
• Engaging fresh audiences

The league plans collaborative marketing campaigns, joint ticketing options, and community engagement programs aligned with the World Cup schedule to convert viewers into loyal supporters, creating sustained growth momentum.

Tactical and Technical Breakdown

The NWSL is expected to benefit from:

1. Increased attendance
2. Showcasing top-level athlete development
3. Highlighting youth development, coaching standards, and league professionalism

Lessons from international play, particularly in match intensity and tactical flexibility, will inform post-World Cup league preparations. Recruiting and retaining internationally exposed talents will be pivotal to enhancing the NWSL’s global competitiveness, potentially placing it alongside Europe’s top leagues.

Psychologically, the World Cup atmosphere will inspire players and staff to raise their standards, improving on-field performance and competitive balance, making games more exciting for fans.

Reactions from the Sport

The global soccer community has responded with optimism:

• Players and coaches see the World Cup as a ‘once-in-a-generation’ showcase opportunity.
• League owners and sponsors recognize marketing potential, with preliminary commitments for expanded partnerships and investments.
• Canada and Mexico federations are exploring collaborative initiatives to promote women’s soccer across North America, including transnational tournaments and talent exchanges.

What Comes Next?

The key to converting World Cup momentum into long-term growth lies in:

• Effective marketing campaigns
• Strategic partnerships and enhanced media coverage
• Creating fan-friendly stadium environments
• Expanding the league’s footprint to new cities
• Improving player salaries and working conditions

As the World Cup approaches, the success of Jessica Berman’s vision in elevating the NWSL’s global stature and inspiring future generations will become clear. The stakes are high, but the potential for transformative growth is immense.

About The Author

Mitali

See author's posts