The national football federation confirmed an expanded women’s top division for next season, adding two teams and introducing a minimum salary requirement for the first time.
The changes follow a review commissioned after player advocacy groups raised concerns about inconsistent pay and part-time contract structures across the league’s existing clubs.
“This has been years in the making,” said one senior national-team player who campaigned publicly for the changes. “It won’t fix everything overnight, but it sets a floor that didn’t exist before.”
Federation officials said the changes follow years of advocacy from players and coaches, and will be phased in alongside a broadcast deal intended to help fund the higher salary floor.
Some clubs have asked for more time to meet the new financial requirements, and the federation has said it will offer a one-season grace period for teams that can show a credible plan to reach compliance.
