The FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 took the country by storm in July and August 2023, but one of the most important aspects of the tournament was the significant legacy it left behind for the game in Aotearoa. 

To acknowledge and track the numerous legacy goals and successes, FIFA have launched the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023™ Impact Hub which highlights the impact the tournament left behind on both countries and the continuing benefits of hosting the event. 

For Aotearoa New Zealand, there have been legacy successes across the game, including: 
 

• Over $25 million NZD was invested in community sports facilities across the country, including $5 million dedicated to providing gender equal access. 

• $400,000 NZD of equipment being redistributed to clubs and federations across the country.

• The Wellington Phoenix Women’s team being established, providing a professional pathway that didn’t exist before and one that will grow again in 2025 with the launch of the Auckland FC women’s team. 

• New Zealand Football’s legacy-funded playing programmes, like Milo Fantails and Kickin’ It introducing thousands of new players to the game (New Zealand Football will be publishing 2024 playing numbers before the end of the year which will show the continued rapid development of football and futsal for women and girls).

• The Ford Women in Leadership programme supporting the professional development of emerging female leaders in football, with nearly 100 women taking part in the programme across the country. 

• The tournament attracting 2.1 million Kiwis to watch games on TV, and 700,000 tickets sold in Aotearoa New Zealand, putting football in the national spotlight like never before. 

Read New Zealand Football’s Legacy Impact Report (published in December 2023)

Article added: Thursday 28 November 2024