FA apology to the Manchester Corinthians could raise the profile and investment in women’s football — punters may see shorter odds on top women’s clubs and increased betting volumes for major women’s fixtures as media attention and funding grow.
FA issues historic apology to pioneering Manchester Corinthians
The Football Association has formally apologised for the 1921 ban on women’s football and for leaving that policy in place until 1971, singling out Manchester Corinthians Ladies FC for their “unwavering spirit and determination.” The recognition comes more than a century after the restrictions began and marks a symbolic moment for a team long celebrated as pioneers of the women’s game.
Corinthians’ legacy: defying a five-decade ban
Formed in 1949, Manchester Corinthians defied the ban and built an international reputation. They were the first women’s team to tour South America (1960), claimed an unofficial European Cup by beating Germany (1957), and defeated Juventus to win a European cup in 1970. Survivors of the side have described decades of exclusion and the joy of finally being acknowledged by football’s governing body.
Survivors react
Myra Lypnyckyj, one of the oldest surviving players, said the apology felt like “the best win we have ever had” and hoped the team might one day receive recognition on the pitch at Wembley. Monica Curran called the apology “ground-breaking,” likening the moment to historic advances in women’s rights and celebrating the team’s role in making history.
Calls for action beyond words
Players stressed that an apology must be followed by tangible change. Marlene Cook urged equal investment in girls’ and women’s academies, equal training facilities, sponsorship, and media coverage — arguing that real redress means parity in development and resources, not only statements.
Documentary preserves the first-hand story
The story of the Corinthians is told in the documentary The Corinthians: We Were the Champions, directed by Helen Tither and voiced by the team’s surviving members. The film features the testimonies of Myra Lypnyckyj, Anne Grimes, Marlene Cook, Pauline Hulme, Freda Ashton, Monica Curran, Jean Wilson, Margaret Whitworth, Margaret Shepherd, and Jan Lyons, chronicling their struggle to play and their international achievements.
What the apology means for the game
The FA’s statement acknowledges past wrongs and highlights recent investment in the women’s game following sustained success at international level.
10 Managers With the Most Trophies in Football History (Ranked)
The recognition of pioneering teams like the Corinthians helps cement the historical narrative of women’s football and strengthens the case for continued resources and visibility at club and grassroots levels.
