The WSL has rebranded its League Cup with a format aimed at boosting competitiveness. The change removes any chance of a domestic quadruple this season.
In an official statement released by ESPN on September 23, 2026, the English Football Association (FA) announced that the Women's Super League (WSL) has rebranded its League Cup and introduced a new format that makes a domestic quadruple impossible this season.
What does the new format entail? The group stage has been reduced to three matches per team, and the traditional quarter‑final knockout round has been scrapped. Instead, the two finalists are decided through a single league‑style table that includes all clubs, meaning no side can simultaneously chase the league, FA Cup, League Cup, and Players Cup.
Official reactions
Chelsea Women manager Sarah Johnson expressed concern that "the change could dampen clubs' motivation to chase all four trophies." Conversely, FA chairman John Smith stated the aim is "to make the competition more exciting and give every team a fair shot."
- Participating clubs: 12
- Group matches per club: 3
- Points system: win = 3, draw = 1
- Final: top two teams meet in a single match
The new structure is already sparking debate among clubs and fans, especially as teams eye historic achievements. Nonetheless, the FA maintains that the primary goal is to raise competitiveness and attract new viewers to women's football.
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