From CNBC: 2024-08-22 15:16:26

The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and NWSL Players Association have agreed to eliminate the draft and grant free agency to all players in a historic move. The new collective bargaining agreement extends to 2030 and aims to give players more control over their careers, allowing them to join top clubs globally. The league minimum salary will increase to $82,500 by 2030, with the base salary cap rising to $5.1 million. Players will have no salary limit, and teams can allocate salaries at their discretion. The CBA also allows for the salary cap to increase with the league’s revenue-sharing model, benefiting from sponsorship and media deals. The NWSL’s growth is evident in its surge in attendance, viewership and team valuations. Recently, Disney CEO Bob Iger and journalist Willow Bay took a controlling stake in Angel City FC, valuing the team at $250 million, the world’s most valuable women’s sports team. The league also secured a media deal worth $240 million over four years, a significant increase from previous agreements. The NWSL chose to renegotiate the CBA with the players’ association two years early to provide investors and partners with a clear view of the future business model, aiming to unlock more investment opportunities and resources for future growth.



Read more at CNBC: NWSL eliminates draft, grants unrestricted free agency to players