[Liverpool](https://liverpooloffside.sbnation.com/) and other clubs that are part of the WLS Football shareholders [voted to expand the WSL from 12 to 14 teams](https://womensleagues.thefa.com/wsl-football-regarding-expansion-of-the-bwsl) starting in the 2026/27 season. The expansion had been discussed over the past year since the WSL became independent of the FA, but the process for expansion was one of hot debate. The format for the expansion seems to be set now, with promotion and relegation very much a part of the plan after discussions of creating a closed league for a period of time were nixed.
Starting next season, promotion and relegation will include both automatic promotion/relegation spots as well as a playoff spot to determine if a club gets promoted over a lower table WSL side. The process will include two teams automatically added after next season, with one automatic promotion/relegation spot in the future. For the time being, the WSL2 will remain at 12 teams.
**After the 2025/26 season:**
* The first and second place teams in WSL2 will be automatically promoted to WSL.
* The third place team in WSL2 will play the last place team in WSL to determine the last spot in the WSL.
**After the 2026/27 season and beyond:**
* The first place team in WSL2 will earn automatic promotion to the WSL and the 14th placed team in the WSL will be relegated to WSL2.
* The second placed team in WSL2 will play the 13th place team in the WSL for the final place in the WSL.
The expansion and process still have to be approved by the FA Board, but the motion is expected to pass. The CEO of WSL Football, Nikki Doucet, stated that the path to reach consensus on the expansion and the process has included extensive research. She believes the expansion will help to raise overall investment within the Women’s game in Britain and will help create a higher profile for the league.
“Over the past few months, WSL Football has led a thorough and robust, consultative process backed by research and analysis which explored multiple options that could drive the game forward and help it reach its potential.”
“Our priority was to find a route that would benefit the whole women’s game pyramid, and we believe this next evolution of women’s professional football will raise minimum standards, create distinction and incentivize investment across the board. Subject to the approval from The FA Board, expanding the BWSL to 14 teams will stimulate movement between leagues and through the pyramid which increases opportunities. The introduction of a promotion/relegation playoff creates distinction for the women’s game and introduces a high-profile, high stakes match.”