Everton Women and London City Lionesses have officially confirmed their participation in the upcoming Women’s World Sevens.
Six teams are already locked in, with just two spots that were remaining have been confirmed to complete the elite eight-team lineup. This world-class field is set to descend on Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium the home of the Premier League side to battle for a massive $1.5 million USD prize pool.
The Gtech Community Stadium a venue that recently hosted matches for the UEFA Women’s Euro and the FIFA Women’s Champions Cup will be transformed into a three-day festival.
What is this Tournament?
This is a 7-a-side tournament taking place between 28th and 30th May at Brentford FC’s Gtech Community Stadium. This will consist of 30-minute matches on a half-sized pitch with rolling substitutions and no offside rule.
With previous success and social media hype created in Estoril, Portugal, and Fort Lauderdale, Florida, it is sure to be a hit in England, with some of the teams from the most competitive league in the world. The tournament is one that both fans and players are meant to enjoy. From cartwheels to slow-motion walkouts, DJs and a festival atmosphere, there’s a reason for everyone to smile at this event
Who are the incoming teams?
The upcoming 7-a-side showcase at Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium isn’t just about the football; it’s about the prestige of the Barclays Women’s Super League (WSL).
While previous iterations of the tournament in Estoril and Fort Lauderdale featured a more eclectic, international mix of clubs, the London Edition is doubling down on the quality of the English game. By bringing together teams from arguably the most competitive league in the world, the event organisers are ensuring that the tactical speed of the 7v7 format is matched by world-class technical ability.
Among the first heavyweights to secure their place in the eight-team bracket are Manchester United and Aston Villa. These two clubs bring a massive pedigree to the tournament, along with fanbases that are expected to turn the West London stadium into a cauldron of noise.
Joining them are Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham, rounding out a strong contingent of established top-flight giants. With six teams now confirmed and the two spots remaining have been filled, the anticipation is building as fans wait to see which final two WSL titans will complete the elite lineup well we have the news here for you.
Perhaps the most intriguing addition to the roster is the London City Lionesses. Based in Bromley, the Lionesses have quickly become the “giant killers” of English football. Following their promotion to the WSL this season, they have defied every expectation, transitioning from league newcomers to a legitimate powerhouse.
Under the ambitious ownership of Michele Kang and the leadership of stars like Nikita Parris and Kosovare Asllani, the club has shattered transfer records and proven they can go toe-to-toe with the traditional big four. Their inclusion adds a layer of unpredictable energy to the tournament, as they look to assert their dominance on a stage designed for flair.
London City Lionesses Chief Executive Martin Semmens said: “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. “
Everton Women are a long-standing team in the WSL, currently sitting 8th in the league. While they’ve had a bit of an up-and-down season, they are known for being a tough, hardworking side that doesn’t give up easily.
They have a lot of experience playing against the best teams in the country, and their gritty style of play makes them a difficult opponent for anyone. They might be a mid-table side now, but they have the talent to shake things up in the World Sevens.
Director of Women’s Football Operations at Everton, Catherine Wright, 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.”
Who else is participating?
Manchester United, Aston Villa, Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United, London City Lionesses and Everton Women, plus two more teams to be announced. Manchester United participated in the first tournament, where they finished runners-up following the final against Bayern Munich.
In a post-tournament interview, manager Marc Skinner said, “[My favourite part of the tournament] was just the players enjoying it, Smiles, laughter. As a coach, it’s very rare that you can get authentic moments to bring people together.”
The World Sevens spoke about their excitement in a recent statement.
“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,” said Sarah Cummins, CEO of World Sevens Football. “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.”
With Everton Women and the London City Lionesses officially stepping into the arena, the World Sevens Football London Edition has transformed from a mere exhibition into a definitive showcase of WSL depth.
The inclusion of these two clubs one a storied veteran of the top flight and the other its most exciting new disruptor perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the tournament: a blend of hard-earned experience and fearless ambition.
As the final two participants prepare to be unveiled, the Gtech Community Stadium stands ready to host more than just a competition. It is set to become a celebration of a historic season for women’s football in England.
