Parliament Boosts Women's Euro 2025 Budget to CHF15 Million

In a landmark decision for women's sports in Switzerland, the Parliament has approved a substantial CHF15 million ($17 million) budget for hosting the Women's Euro 2025. This significant financial commitment represents a dramatic increase from the government's initial proposal of CHF4 million announced in January. The decision reflects Switzerland's growing commitment to women's football and gender equality in sports.

The funding approval followed a comprehensive legislative process, with both the Senate and the House of Representatives voting in favor of the motion. Sports Minister Viola Amherd confirmed that the motion has already been implemented through a supplementary credit to the current year's budget. The government's initial hesitation, citing the country's strained financial situation, was ultimately overcome by strong parliamentary support for women's sports.

The approved funding of CHF15 million, while significant, still stands in stark contrast to the CHF80 million allocated for the men's Euros held in Switzerland and Austria in 2008. Critics had previously pointed out that the initial proposal of CHF4 million represented just 5% of the 2008 men's tournament budget. The current approval, while not reaching parity with the men's event, marks a substantial step forward in reducing the funding gap between men's and women's football events.

The increased funding represents a significant boost for women's football in Switzerland and sends a strong message about the country's commitment to developing the sport. This investment is expected to enhance the tournament's organization, improve facilities, and create a lasting legacy for women's football in Switzerland. The decision aligns with the growing global momentum for women's sports and positions Switzerland as a progressive host for major women's sporting events.