Diversification into Women’s Football at Top Football Brands

Julian Hadwiger ()
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Julian Hadwiger: WHU—Otto Beisheim School of Management, Center for Sports and Management

A chapter in Diversify or Die, 2026, pp 259-272 from Springer

Abstract: Abstract In this chapter, the author explores the rapid rise of women’s football as a compelling case of strategic diversification in professional sport. Framing its growth as one of the most significant developments in the industry, the author examines how an increasing number of professional men’s clubs are entering the women’s game. Four primary rationales underpin this shift: faster market growth and rising asset values, access to younger and more gender-balanced audiences, enhanced corporate social responsibility, and growing regulatory incentives. The chapter analyzes two distinct entry modes—capital-intensive inorganic acquisitions, as seen with Eintracht Frankfurt, BK Häcken, and Real Madrid, and grassroots-driven organic initiatives, exemplified by Borussia Dortmund’s member-led approach. While integrated clubs appear to offer advantages in terms of commercial viability, sporting performance, and fan engagement, the displacement of independent women’s teams raises concerns. Combining historical perspective, economic analysis, and scenario planning, the author assesses whether this diversification trend can generate lasting returns across commercial, sporting, and societal dimensions.

Keywords: Women’s Football; Diversification; Make-or-buy; Integrated clubs; Strategic growth (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:spr:fuobcp:978-3-032-08538-2_18

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DOI: 10.1007/978-3-032-08538-2_18

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