Euro 2025: Even after women coaches' long title-winning run they are still outnumbered by men

GENEVA (AP) — The statistical anomaly is as striking as it is inspiring: for nearly three decades, the pinnacle of European women’s football has been consistently reached under the guidance of female coaches. Since 1997, every single trophy-winning team at the Women's European Championship has been led to glory by a woman, a remarkable streak that underscores their tactical acumen and leadership capabilities on the grandest stage. Yet, despite this undeniable track record of success, the sidelines of the Women's Euros continue to tell a different story, one of persistent underrepresentation where male coaches still significantly outnumber their female counterparts.

This unprecedented run of triumphs is largely attributed to the collective genius of three iconic figures: Sarina Wiegman, Silvia Neid, and Tina Theune. Theune set the precedent, guiding Germany to multiple titles in the late 90s and early 2000s, establishing a dynasty built on meticulous preparation and strategic brilliance. Her successor, Silvia Neid, continued that legacy, ensuring Germany remained a dominant force for years, adding more silverware to their collection. Most recently, Sarina Wiegman has etched her name into history, leading first her native Netherlands to a Euro title in 2017, and then astonishingly, repeating the feat with England in 2022, ending decades of heartbreak for the Lionesses. Their collective achievements are not just a testament to individual brilliance, but a powerful demonstration that female coaches are more than capable of navigating the high-pressure environment of elite international football and delivering tangible results.

The paradox, however, lies in the wider coaching landscape. While women have consistently lifted the most coveted trophy, they have always done so from a position of numerical disadvantage. Tournament after tournament, the majority of the national teams competing at the Women's Euros are managed by men. This raises pertinent questions about pathways, opportunities, and systemic biases within football coaching. Is it a pipeline problem, where fewer women are encouraged or supported to pursue coaching badges at the highest levels? Or does it reflect a deeper cultural reluctance within federations to entrust top jobs to women, despite the overwhelming evidence of their success? The "old boys' network" often cited in men's football may well extend its reach into the women's game, creating an invisible barrier for aspiring female tacticians.

As Euro 2025 approaches, the spotlight will inevitably fall not just on the players, but on those dictating tactics from the technical areas. Will the trend of female coaches winning continue, further solidifying their legacy? More importantly, will there be a significant shift in the overall demographics of the coaching staff across the participating nations? Addressing this imbalance requires more than just celebrating the successes of the few; it demands proactive measures from UEFA and national associations to invest in female coach development programs, create equitable hiring practices, and challenge preconceived notions about leadership in sports. Only then can the true potential of women's football, both on and off the pitch, be fully realized, ensuring that the incredible winning streak of female coaches is matched by a proportionate presence in the dugout.