NWSL Commissioner Jessica Berman voiced wholehearted support for Concacaf’s rejection of FIFA president Gianni Infantino’s privatization proposal during a press conference. The proposal involved creating a subsidiary called FIFA Forward Enterprise to bundle men’s and women’s World Cups and Club World Cups, with approximately 20% sold to private investors for roughly $4 billion. The initiative drew swift opposition from UEFA, Concacaf, and the AFC, leading to its withdrawal within days.
Berman stated she is eager to engage in discussions with U.S. Soccer’s board regarding future FIFA leadership ahead of the federation’s September meeting, which occurs two months before the deadline for presidential candidates to submit their interest. She emphasized that women’s soccer development and investment should remain central to FIFA’s priorities, noting that the privatization proposal’s sales materials omitted any provisions for the Women’s World Cup or other women’s competitions.
The commissioner identified the international women’s soccer match calendar as her primary focus area, describing it as foundational to NWSL operations and broadcast agreements. She stressed that determining the calendar for the upcoming cycle represents a critical 12 to 18-month period and requires meaningful consultation with club leagues. Berman noted that scheduling continues to pose annual challenges, including navigating international breaks and coordinating with MLS calendar decisions.
Berman highlighted the NWSL’s recent growth metrics, citing nearly 300% Instagram growth and 100% YouTube growth during a Summer of Soccer campaign coinciding with the men’s World Cup. The league achieved an average match attendance of 11,174 fans year to date, marking the second-highest in league history. She also announced plans to open the 2027 season in Los Angeles on February 11, positioned strategically near the Super Bowl at nearby SoFi Stadium.
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