Fran Hilton-Smith: 2026 FIFA WCC will attract funding to the women’s game
24th August 2025
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COSAFA and CAF coaching instructor Fran Hilton-Smith has praised FIFA’s recent approval of the Women’s Champions Cup for 2026 and believes that it will attract more funding towards the women’s game.
The global championship is designed to bring together the six continental club champions to compete for a coveted new trophy.
Speaking to SABC Sport, Hilton-Smith says it is a huge step to help highlight issues regarding equality and grow football.
“Huge development and growth starts from the top and this FIFA WCC will assist the growth of the game and the popularity and bring more money/funding to the game and speaks to gender parity. It will attract girls and sponsors. It will also help to professionalise the game,’’ said Hilton-Smith.
Mamelodi Sundowns ladies has won the CAF Champions league twice in 2021 and in 2023, they will look to secure the upcoming continental trophy to book a spot in the FIFA Women’s Champions Cup, which will take place next year in China. Hilton-Smith says this is a great opportunity for any African country including Sundowns.
“ Sundowns or whoever winning-exposure on world stage. All agents will be there. Big contracts. Big money. Develop interest in women’s football. This also means more careers for women players,” added Hilton-Smith.
Four teams have already confirmed their participation in the first edition of the FIFA Women's Champions Cup - Arsenal, Auckland United FC, Gotham FC, Wuhan Jiangda, this after dominating in major continental titles. The seasoned football administrator says fans should brace themselves to witness the best talent in the world.
“Best talent in the world on show. The best players in respective countries go to play in top teams ie Sundowns so will strengthen teams. Will assist in making women’s football the sport of choice in the world,’’ she expressed.
