Wiegman remains England coach amid Euro excitement

Mark Bullingham emphasizes that Sarina Wiegman will remain England's coach through 2027 amid tournament anticipation.

Mark Bullingham affirms Sarina Wiegman is not for sale amid Euro 2025 excitement

Mark Bullingham, chief executive of the Football Association, firmly stated that Sarina Wiegman is not for sale as she leads the England women's team into the Euro 2025 final against Spain this Sunday. The Dutch coach, under contract until the 2027 Women’s World Cup, has received widespread acclaim for her leadership, guiding the team to five consecutive finals. Bullingham noted Wiegman's unique ability to connect with players and her tremendous track record, saying she is crucial to building a strong team culture. He rebuffed questions regarding her potential move to the men's team role, asserting that the women’s position is not lesser than its male counterpart. In another pressing issue, he addressed the rise of online racism directed at players like Jess Carter, demanding more accountability from social media platforms for their failure to prevent such abuse.

Wiegman's tenure marks a transformative period for women's football in England. Bullingham's comments reflect a commitment to maintaining continuity and stability within the national team's coaching staff. Given her success, the decision to reject any offers for Wiegman speaks to the FA's understanding of how vital a coach of her caliber is to not only success on the field but also for fostering a positive, inclusive culture. However, Bullingham's remarks on online abuse point to a wider challenge facing the sport. The FA's willingness to address these issues is as crucial as their aspirations in tournaments, highlighting the intersection of sports and social responsibility.

Highlights

The future of women's football in England looks promising under Wiegman's steady leadership.