The Football Association of Wales (FAW) is making significant strides in women's football as the Wales team prepares for Euro 2025. Technical director Dave Adams acknowledges the FAW's recent investments in equality between men's and women's teams, marking a pivotal shift in the sport's landscape.

The Rise of Women's Football in Wales

Historical Context Prior to 1993, there was no official Wales women's team affiliated with the FAW. Their first qualifying match for Euro 1995 against Switzerland at Cwmbran Stadium attracted a modest crowd of just 345. Fast forward to December 2023, the team secured their place in Euro 2025 by defeating the Republic of Ireland in a play-off final in Dublin.

Investment and Equality Adams emphasizes the FAW's commitment to equality, stating, "We're moving in that direction. We've definitely got a lot more equality. We're doing a lot of catch up in this space." The FAW launched its first women and girls football strategy in 2021, aiming to double participation levels to 20,000 registered girls playing football.

Future Goals FAW chief executive Noel Mooney highlights the importance of grassroots support, saying, "We treat the women's game like a start-up almost because it hadn't had the investment historically. Now we're investing in it very heavily." The FAW aims to ensure consistent qualification for major tournaments and sustained growth in women's football.

Euro 2025: A New Chapter

Wales will face the Netherlands in their first group game at Euro 2025 in Lucerne on 5 July, followed by matches against France and England in Saint Gallen. This tournament marks a significant milestone for the team, showcasing their progress and the FAW's ongoing support.

Media and Recognition The journey of the Wales women's team is documented in the BBC series Iconic: The Rise of the Women in Red, hosted by Wales' record goal scorer Jess Fishlock. The series explores the team's evolution from humble beginnings to their current success.

Conclusion As Wales prepares for Euro 2025, the FAW's investments and commitment to equality are paving the way for a brighter future in women's football. The team's journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and the transformative power of sports.