Rachel Major, a dedicated supporter of Arsenal, faces jibes from rival fans regarding the club's impressive attendance figures, averaging 34,000 at the Emirates Stadium last season. This remarkable turnout accounts for 41% of all supporters in WSL fixtures, highlighting Arsenal's role in the growth of women's football.

To understand how to sustain and expand this fanbase, BBC Sport surveyed fans on enhancing engagement and attracting new supporters. A YouGov study in January 2026 revealed 28.5 million global fans of WSL football, equally split by gender and skewed towards a younger demographic.

The family-friendly atmosphere has been pivotal, with clubs like London City Lionesses setting a benchmark for fan engagement. They won the Best Fan Engagement award at the 2026 Women's Football Awards, thanks to initiatives like diverse food options and interactive activities during matches.

However, challenges remain. Fans expressed dissatisfaction with scheduling changes, particularly the shift from Sunday evening kick-offs to noon matches, which clash with grassroots football and complicate travel plans. Accessibility issues also persist, with concerns about communication and facilities for disabled fans.

As clubs strive to increase attendance, they face pressure to innovate without merely replicating men's football models. Brighton leads with Europe’s first purpose-built women’s football stadium, while other clubs like Chelsea and Arsenal commit to improved venues for better fan experiences.

Moving forward, effective communication and marketing strategies, particularly on social media, will be crucial in engaging younger audiences. The success of the Lionesses is expected to further elevate interest as the 2026-27 season approaches, with clubs needing to address existing issues to capitalize on this momentum.