In a recent report from English-based news outlet Soccerex, the United States’ men and women’s soccer teams have come to an agreement to resolve their ongoing pay disputes.
The news comes as we reach the knockout stages of the Women’s World Cup in France, with the USA set to face the hosts in the quarter finals after a 2-1 win against Spain.
Got the job done 👊 🇺🇸
On to Quarterfinals and a matchup with host France in Paris on Friday!#OneNationOneTeam pic.twitter.com/fOm1ZUIw0i
— U.S. Soccer WNT (@USWNT) June 24, 2019
In the last week or so, reports emerged that the women’s side generate more revenue for the sport of soccer in the USA than the men do. Despite the World Cup being far from over for the American girls, they clearly see this as an opportunity to prove why they should be on the same page as their male counterparts.
A statement regarding the timing of this mediation request can be found below from governing body, US Soccer.
‘While we welcome the opportunity to mediate, we are disappointed the plaintiffs’ counsel felt it necessary to share this news publicly during the Women’s World Cup and crate any possible distraction from the team’s focus on the tournament.’
As many male American players play in different countries (for example, Borussia Mochengladbach’s Fabian Johnson and Chelsea’s newest signing Christian Pulisic), bridging the pay gap is always going to be a challenge, despite the women being the reigning World Cup holders.
The announcement of this mediation process, which will begin following the conclusion of the Women’s World Cup on July 7, is a step in the right direction not just for soccer in the USA.
But it is a positive sign for other countries to also consider the possibility of equal pay. Countries like Australia and Norway, both of whom have numerous male players on club duty across the globe, could take a hint and pick up what the US it putting down.
The mediation isn’t a guarantee that the US women will be granted equal pay, but it is, once again, a very positive sign.
