April 23 – World Sevens Football (W7F) is starting to take clearer shape ahead of its London launch – the third tournament under the organisation’s banner – with Everton Women and London City Lionesses confirmed as the latest additions to the eight-team field.
They join Aston Villa Women, Manchester United Women, Tottenham Hotspur Women and West Ham United Women, with two slots still to be filled. The three-day tournament will run from May 28–30 at Gtech Community Stadium, effectively extending the domestic season with a condensed, made-for-event format.
The 7v7 concept – shorter games, fewer players, quicker turnaround – leans heavily into tempo and presentation. It’s a format that has been tested in other markets, but this is one of the more deliberate attempts to plug it into the end-of-season window in England.
Tobin Heath, part of the competition’s player advisory council, said: “Having played in the WSL, I know first-hand how high the level is and how much personality there is in the league. The W7F London Edition will tap straight into that: the intensity, the creativity, the joy.
“The teams playing in London reflect the incredible standard of the women’s game in England, and the 7v7 format gives players the freedom to express themselves, show their flair, and put on an entertaining, three-day experience that fans are going to love.”
From a club perspective, the messaging is more pragmatic. Catherine Wright, Director of Women’s Football Operations at Everton Women, said: “We are delighted to be part of the upcoming World Sevens Football competition.
“Exciting formats like this bring a different kind of energy to the game, and we are looking forward to being involved in the first tournament to be held in the United Kingdom.
“It is a great opportunity for our players, staff and fans to be a part of something different in the women’s game.”
Martin Semmens, Chief Executive of London City Lionesses, added: “We’re happy to be taking part in the upcoming World Sevens Football London Edition next month. For our fans, our players, and all our staff, it is a great way to close out an exciting first season within the WSL.
“The tournament is a great way to showcase women’s football in our capital city, and we’re excited to see many new fans experience the women’s game and our team perform.
“Innovation and fan experience is at the very heart of everything that is good within the women’s game, and W7F is a great way for existing and new fans to see a different format that will continue to entertain the fans in a new way.
“We will have many of the world’s best players together in one tournament, in London, which is accessible to every fan of sport to come and experience in a way only the women’s game can deliver.”
Sarah Cummins, CEO of World Sevens Football, said: “We’re thrilled to see the London City Lionesses and Everton Women become part of what is shaping up to be a truly special London edition. Both clubs bring a strong sense of ambition that aligns naturally with what we’re building through W7F. This London edition is designed to draw fans closer to the game, celebrating the end of the WSL season with something fast-paced, action-packed and entertaining.”
Ticketing is already live, with broadcast details and the final two clubs still to be confirmed.
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at [moc.l1776940830labto1776940830ofdlr1776940830owedi1776940830sni@g1776940830niwe.1776940830yrrah1776940830](javascript:;)