Manchester United, Bayern Munich Confirmed for Inaugural World Sevens Football Tournament

Manchester United, Bayern Munich, Ajax, and Benfica have been announced as the first clubs participating in the inaugural World Sevens Football (W7F) tournament, a new seven-a-side women's competition taking place in Portugal from May 21-23. The tournament features a $5 million prize pool, with $2.5 million awarded to the winners—significantly more than the current Women's Champions League prize. The event is scheduled just before the Women's Champions League final and ahead of the European Championship, and is expected to attract top first-team players, including England's Ella Toone. Organizers have not ruled out the participation of clubs from the US National Women's Soccer League or additional high-profile European clubs. Funding for the W7F comes from Jennifer and Scott Mackesy, and the tournament is seen as an innovative step for women's football, offering a new format and substantial financial incentives. All participating clubs will have their travel and accommodation covered, and prize money will be shared among clubs, players, and staff, though the exact distribution may vary by club.