EA Sports Announces the partnership and inclusion of the NWSL in FIFA23

Another step forward for Women’s Football

Regardless, if you refer to this global sport, as soccer or football, the "beautiful game" is loved around the world by both men and women.  For decades many considered it a man’s sport going as far as banning women from playing professionally in the UK for 50 years.  We’ve come a long way since those days, thankfully. There has been some great strides made in the women’s game including several top leagues around  the world such as the NWSL in the United States, the WSL in England, Frauen-Bundesliga in Germany, Division 1 Féminine in France, Primera Iberdrola in Spain, WE League in Japan and A-League in Australia.  Let’s not forget UEFA Women’s Champion League, She Believes Cup or the World’s biggest competition in women’s sport happening downunder as Australia and New Zealand co- host this summer. This is the ninth FIFA Women’s World Cup  stretching back to 1991, but the first time 32 teams compete in this competition.

Today is another first for the women’s game was announced. The National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) , the National Women's Soccer League Players Association (NWSLPA) and Electronic Arts Inc. (EA Sports) made it public their partnerships as part of EA SPORTS ongoing commitment to the women’s game.

“The NWSL’s integration into EA SPORTS FIFA 23 is a monumental milestone for the league, the players and millions of football fans around the world as we continue pushing boundaries for the women’s game”, said Jessica Berman, Commissioner, NWSL.   

In the press release Berman also said “The athletes that call the NWSL home are some of the best in the world and we’re excited for the opportunity to further showcase their talent through this unique gaming experience. We can’t wait for fans to begin playing and we look forward to continuing this celebration of the players and the league when we kick off our 11th season on March 25.”

As of March 15, 2023, the new edition will include all 12 NWSL teams, Kick Off, Tournament Mode, Head to Head season / Co-op Seasons and Online Friendlies. EA SPORTS™ FIFA 23 will feature four NWSL stadiums, the teams authentic kits, NWSL players, their celebrations and trophies.

Andrea Hopelain, EA Sports' SVP of brand, said the league's integration is another step as the organization continues to strive for change in women's football.

"We're passionate about EA SPORTS continuing to be a changemaker for women's football, and our partnership with both the NWSL and the NWSLPA is another step we're taking as an organization to advance the sport," Hopelain said. "We're committed to being champions for the future of football and bringing unrivaled authenticity to millions of football fans across the globe."

Meghann Burke, Executive Director of the NWSLPA has said “the players are the beating heart of every fan experience, fueling collective excitement through their passion, dedication, and perseverance. Today is a historic day for both our players and fans. This is a thrilling time for women's football, and we're looking forward to collaborating with EA SPORTS to champion the sport and create new opportunities for fans around the world to engage with these incredibly talented players."

Across twitter today, teams are sharing their excitement. Here's what they had to say. San Diego Wave, Orlando Pride, Angel City, Portland Thorns, Houston Dash, Chicago Red Stars, Racing Louisville, Washington Spirit, NC Courage and OL Reign.