From Underdogs to Icons: The Lionesses and the Rise of Women’s Football

Written by Emma Rowell, edited by Charlotte Lewis

With another victory under their belt, England’s Lionesses have once again captured the nation’s attention, highlighting the continued rise of women’s football.

What was once a side-lined sport is now firmly in the spotlight, with growing audiences, increased investment, and a new generation of fans. The momentum behind women’s football reflects a wider cultural shift: attitudes are evolving, representation is expanding, and young women are seeing new possibilities, both on and off the pitch. A game long dominated by a male narrative is finally opening up to new voices, and they’re making themselves heard.

Sunday’s win over Spain wasn’t just a triumph for the Lionesses, it was a milestone for women’s football as a whole. With growing media coverage, sponsorship deals, and public interest, the women’s game is moving steadily to the forefront. Over 34,000 fans packed into St Jakob-Park Stadium in Switzerland, clearly showing that the appetite for the sport is strong and growing. This kind of turnout reinforces the legitimacy of the women’s game and strengthens the case for greater investment, coverage, and equality with men’s football.

Image Credit: Sky Sports

Visibility Creates Role Models

The surge in popularity brings not only sponsorship opportunities but also a rise in role models for young girls across the country. It’s one thing to feel inspired; but feeling inspired by something you're truly passionate about is transformative.

Girls involved in grassroots football can now see a real pathway to the top, a future in the sport that feels both visible and achievable. They’re no longer dreaming from the side-lines; they’re stepping onto the pitch with genuine ambition, driven by the success of the Lionesses and the increasing visibility of women’s sport.

Names like Mary Earps, Leah Williamson, and Chloe Kelly have become household names. Their presence in the media allows young girls to see themselves reflected in sport. With every piece of coverage, we move further away from the outdated stereotype that football is a "man’s game"—showing real progress and a growing sense of open-mindedness in the world of football.

Representation on the Pitch and On Screen

The growth in appeal isn’t limited to the pitch: social and digital media are amplifying the momentum. Twenty-three years after its release, the iconic film Bend It Like Beckham is set to return with a sequel in 2027. This new chapter will explore how women’s football has become more competitive, global, and thrilling than ever.

This reflects a powerful link between the growth of women’s football and media representation. Audience demand isn’t just for what happens during the game—it’s about the stories, the culture, and the journey of the sport itself.

Image credit: The Guardian

The timing couldn’t be more fitting. It underscores how far the sport has come in terms of visibility, professionalism, and public interest. While the original film tackled gender and cultural stereotypes, the sequel will be grounded in a world where women in football are increasingly accepted and celebrated. This reboot isn’t just a nostalgic revisit—it’s a cultural reflection of progress and a signal that there’s still more ground to cover.

According to England Football, “the number of women and girls’ football teams across England has more than doubled over the last seven years.” That statistic represents real change and a trend that must be supported and sustained.

The impact of the Lionesses extends far beyond stadiums and television screens. It’s being felt in classrooms and schoolyards across the country. Their success has changed how schools approach sport, especially when it comes to girls’ participation. Where girls were once overlooked in PE lessons or excluded from football altogether, schools are now actively promoting equal access to sport.

The Lionesses have sparked a new sense of curiosity and confidence in young girls. Combined with initiatives like Girls’ Football in Schools and Barclays Game On, there’s been a tangible increase in participation and exposure to the sport.

As women’s football continues to build momentum—on the pitch, on screen, and in communities—one thing is certain: this isn’t just a moment. It’s a movement.

And the Lionesses are leading the charge.