Over the last decade, women’s football has undergone a remarkable transformation. What was once an underrepresented and underfunded part of the sport has grown into a powerful movement—drawing record-breaking crowds, inspiring the next generation, and creating a uniquely inclusive matchday experience. Today, women’s football is not just changing the game on the pitch, but also redefining how fans, families and businesses engage with sport.
Perhaps the most important impact of women’s football’s rise is the inspiration it provides. Visibility matters, and seeing female players celebrated on the biggest stages encourages girls and young women to believe that football—and sport more widely—is for them.
This inspiration extends beyond professional ambitions. Women’s football promotes confidence, teamwork, leadership and resilience. Grassroots initiatives and school programmes are seeing increased participation from girls who now have relatable role models wearing their club or country’s shirt.
Schools across the UK are reporting higher engagement in girls’ football, with more opportunities to play competitively and recreationally. As pathways become clearer from the playground to the professional game, participation continues to grow, strengthening the future of the sport.
Another defining feature of women’s football is its welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. Matchdays often feel more accessible and inclusive, with a strong sense of community in the stands. Families, young fans and first-time attendees regularly describe women’s football matches as relaxed, friendly and enjoyable experiences.
This environment makes women’s football an ideal entry point for new fans and younger audiences. It’s a space where people can enjoy elite sport without barriers, where affordability and approachability remain important values. This culture not only builds loyalty but encourages repeat attendance and long-term support.
This is where high-quality hospitality has an important role to play. Providing well-designed hospitality experiences at women’s football matches offers clubs a way to generate revenue while adding value for fans, sponsors and corporate guests.
For businesses, women’s football hospitality offers something distinct: an elite sporting environment combined with an inclusive, relaxed atmosphere. It’s ideal for entertaining clients, rewarding teams or hosting networking opportunities in a setting that reflects modern values of equality, community and connection.
At AR Events, we understand the importance of creating experiences that complement the spirit of women’s football. Thoughtful hospitality—whether that’s premium seating, catered lounges or bespoke event services—enhances the day without losing the authenticity that makes the women’s game so special. We’re proud to support this evolution by delivering memorable matchday experiences that bring people together and contribute to a brighter, more inclusive future for football.
Written by Samantha Willkinson
Victoria first introduced me to the world of women’s football back in 2023. Before that, I’d mainly followed the Lionesses during their incredible World Cup run, where they finished as runners‑up. But it was the 2025 Euros that truly ignited my passion for the women’s game—and we were definitely not alone. The whole country seemed to rally behind the Lionesses, and watching them lift the Euro trophy in 2025 was unforgettable. Victoria and I were jumping up and down, champagne in hand, completely amazed by what we were witnessing. It felt like a real moment in history.
Even before that tournament, Victoria had already attended several women’s matches and convinced me to join her for a Manchester City v Arsenal fixture at the Joie Stadium—a purpose‑built home for the women’s team. We decided to try one of Manchester City’s brand‑new hospitality packages. The day started with an informal brunch just outside the Etihad Campus, followed by incredible centre‑line seats right behind the dugout. I couldn’t believe the atmosphere once the game kicked off—it was electric.
What really stood out to me was the strong family feel. There were so many children in the crowd, completely captivated by the players on the pitch. You could see how much they idolised them—the ambition, the belief, the genuine desire to become just like their heroes one day. It was incredibly powerful to watch.
The atmosphere throughout the game was fantastic. Everyone was there simply to enjoy the football and support their team. Arsenal and City fans were mixed together, and there was a real sense of mutual respect for the game itself, which made the experience even more special.
After the Arsenal match, I was keen to see whether that same experience translated to games played at the Etihad Stadium. So, we decided to try the Citizens Hospitality package for the City v United game —and wow, it really was another level.
From the moment we arrived, we were warmly welcomed by a lovely hostess who showed us to our table and talked us through everything. There was drinks service to the table and a buffet‑style selection of food that was absolutely exquisite. We listened to pre‑match speakers before heading to our seats—once again, perfectly positioned on the centre line, complete with padded seating (very comfortable!).
Manchester City certainly know how to put on a show. Fireworks, dramatic build‑up music, pre‑match quizzes with live crowd involvement—honestly, there wasn’t much more they could have added. The whole experience felt premium, exciting and incredibly well thought out. It was at this moment that it really hit me: women’s football has come on leaps and bounds over the last few years. This experience was far beyond anything I’d expected and, in many ways, surpassed what you might experience at a Championship men’s match.
At half‑time, our drinks were already waiting for us back at the table. We hadn’t even pre‑ordered, but our waitress had remembered what we were drinking and kindly arranged it so there was no waiting at all—such a thoughtful touch.
It truly was an outstanding experience, and it’s safe to say women’s football is well and truly on the rise. While there’s still a journey ahead before it attracts the same scale of interest as the men’s game, there is something undeniably special about the women’s game.
It’s inspiring. It’s inclusive. And it’s helping shape the next generation—showing that women playing football is completely normal and something to be celebrated. Gone are the days of girls hiding their love of football or sneaking off to play. No more “Bend It Like Beckham” moments. Today, all ethnicities, backgrounds and abilities can come together and celebrate the beautiful game.
