Breaking News: Endorsement of Scrapping Saturday 3pm TV Blackout for Women’s Football Review

The British government has officially embraced all the proposed changes in the review of women’s football led by Karen Carney. The recommended alterations cover a wide range of areas, from backing full professionalism in the top two divisions to the implementation of cost controls and unionization of the Women’s Super League and Championship. Moreover, it suggests that Saturdays at 3pm should be dedicated to broadcasting women’s football matches.

A group of key stakeholders is set to convene in March and July to provide updates on the implementation of these changes. Karen Carney expressed her optimism, stating, “I’m encouraged that the government is providing their full backing to my review and renewing their commitment to develop women’s football in the UK and fulfill its potential to be a world-beating sport.”

The recommended changes are seen as a crucial step towards creating a sustainable game for women’s football. Furthermore, the government’s approval has come at a critical time for the professional women’s game in England, with the recent formation of NewCo, an independent company to manage WSL and Championship clubs.

The review also highlights the potential of broadcasting live women’s football matches at 3pm on Saturdays to significantly increase revenue. The government is calling for collaboration among the FA, Premier League, EFL, and broadcasters to find alternative slots for broadcasting women’s football matches if the 3pm slot is not viable.

The government has emphasized the need for clear plans to move the women’s game towards financial sustainability and has endorsed the idea of centralized rights. There are discussions about establishing a single NewCo board principle among the leagues, ensuring that clubs are equally represented.

In a statement, the government emphasized the need for independent decision-making to ensure the best interests of women’s football are served. NewCo is urged not to miss the opportunity to take a governance approach that benefits everyone involved.