Ted Lasso Accidentally Stumbles into Women's Soccer's Biggest Coaching Problem

The recent episode of the show 'Ted Lasso' features the main character Ted Lasso, played by Jason Sudeikis, taking on the task of coaching the newly formed women's team at AFC Richmond. This plotline is not just a creative device but brings attention to one of the most significant disparities in women's soccer: the lack of female coaches.

According to FIFA's Setting the Pace benchmark report, only 22 per cent of head coaches across 669 clubs in 86 women's leagues around the world are women. This statistic highlights the significant gap that exists in terms of representation and opportunities for women in coaching roles. The number is even more concerning when we look at the top level of women's soccer, the FIFA Women's World Cup in 2023, where 12 out of 32 head coaches were women.

At the club level, the picture is just as concerning. In the 12-team Women's Super League in England, only four coaches are women. In the US, the situation is not much different. Only four of the National Women's Soccer League's (NWSL) 16 clubs entered the 2026 season with female head coaches. Laura Harvey at Seattle Reign, Bev Yanez at Racing Louisville, Emma Coates at Bay FC, and Filipa Patao at Boston Legacy are the only exceptions to the rule.

The reasons behind this disparity are complex and multifaceted. Historically, women have faced significant barriers in terms of access to coaching positions and opportunities to develop their skills. Professional women's leagues have only recently become more established, and the number of full-time coaching jobs and academies is limited. As a result, women have struggled to gain the experience and qualifications needed to become head coaches.

The situation is further complicated by the fact that clubs are often risk-averse and prefer to hire candidates with experience and qualifications. This creates a vicious cycle, where women are less likely to be given opportunities to develop their skills and gain experience, which in turn makes it even more challenging for them to secure head coaching positions.

However, change is on the horizon. A new generation of female pro players are wrapping up successful careers and looking to transition into coaching roles. They bring with them a wealth of experience and knowledge gained from playing at the top level. Moreover, they have a network of women who have paved the way for them in coaching, providing valuable mentorship and support.

As an example, Racing Louisville coach Bev Yanez has benefited from the guidance of experienced coaches like Laura Harvey, who has become a mentor to many women in the coaching ranks. The NWSL is also taking steps to increase opportunities for women in coaching, including the creation of a women's coaching development program.

While there is still much work to be done, the tide is slowly turning in favor of women in coaching. The show 'Ted Lasso' may have stumbled into this issue, but it has inadvertently brought attention to a problem that needs to be addressed. By highlighting the disparities and barriers faced by women in coaching, the show is helping to spark a conversation that can lead to meaningful change.