Brazil Advances Legislation to Boost Women's Football Ahead of 2027 World Cup

Brazil is making significant legislative strides to promote women's professional football and ensure the success of the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup, set to be hosted in the country. The Brazilian Senate recently approved a key bill (PL 4578/2025) aimed at encouraging the development of women's professional football. This bill mandates that football clubs with men's teams must also maintain women's teams, providing equal resources such as training facilities, medical staff, and trainers. Additionally, the bill restricts the number of amateur players allowed on women's teams to enhance professionalization, limiting them to four amateurs in the top national division, six in the second division and state first divisions, and eight in lower divisions. These provisions will take effect immediately after presidential sanction, with a 180-day period for clubs to comply.

Complementing this, the Chamber of Deputies has passed laws facilitating the hosting of the 2027 Women's World Cup, including tax exemptions for companies organizing the event under Complementary Law 232/26 and the General Law of the Women’s Cup (Law 15.421/26). These laws define government and FIFA responsibilities and operational aspects like advertising, commerce, and public safety.

Deputy Gleisi Hoffmann highlighted the economic benefits of hosting the tournament, projecting job creation, tourism growth, and infrastructure development. Meanwhile, FIFA's Aline Pellegrino emphasized the prominent role of women in organizing the event, with 70% of operational leadership positions held by females, underscoring women's growing empowerment in the sport. Pellegrino also reflected on historical challenges, noting that women were prohibited from competing in sports in Brazil until 1983.

Despite some criticism from lawmakers about previous FIFA events lacking lasting legacies, the 2027 World Cup is seen as a milestone. It will be the first held in South America and feature 32 teams competing in various Brazilian cities. Moreover, discussions continue in the Chamber of Deputies to introduce further legislation promoting financial support and gender equality in women’s football.

These combined legislative efforts reflect Brazil's commitment to elevating women's football both professionally and structurally, aiming for a successful World Cup that fosters long-term growth of the sport within the country.