AFL-CIO Celebrates Historic Women's Soccer Collective Bargaining
Editorial StaffThe Facts -
- The NWSLPA's new contract ends the draft and ensures universal free agency.
- Key features include guaranteed contracts, player consent for trades, and workload management.
- Revenue sharing ties the salary cap to NWSL's sponsorship and media rights earnings.
First in American sports: Eliminates the draft, establishes universal free agency
Today, the National Women’s Soccer League Players Association (NWSLPA) announced their historic new collective bargaining agreement. This agreement ensures free agency for all players, revenue sharing, essential health and safety protections, and fosters a more equitable league. Uniquely, it eliminates the draft, giving athletes control over their futures.
“Just weeks after some NWSLPA members became Olympic champions, these athletes have made history again,” said AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler. “This groundbreaking collective bargaining agreement sets the gold standard for professional sports. The revolutionary victories they secured—from eliminating the draft to requiring player consent for trades—advance professional sports associations' work to let players decide what's best for their families. Collective bargaining is essential for achieving women’s equality. Kudos to President Tori Huster, Executive Director Meghann Burke, Vice President Simone Charley, the bargaining committee, and all NWSLPA members committed to creating a fairer league. The AFL-CIO is proud to support NWSL players for fair contract implementation. It’s a proud day for union women in America!”
“The new Collective Bargaining Agreement showcases the collective power of the Players,” said NWSLPA President Tori Huster. “Together, we secured freedoms that give Players career autonomy, reshaping American sports.”
“This is a win for all Players,” said NWSLPA Executive Director Meghann Burke. “The new Collective Bargaining Agreement achievements show we are in an era where Players have a say in their future. That is their human right.”
Background
Elimination of the Draft
The entry and expansion drafts are immediately abolished. Players now decide which team best fits their needs.
Free Agency for All
All NWSL Players will become Free Agents when their contracts expire, aligning NWSL with global standards and ensuring fair contract negotiations.
Guaranteed Contracts
Every contract will be guaranteed, preventing premature terminations and protecting Players in uncontrollable circumstances like health conditions.
No Trades Without Player Consent
Players cannot be traded without their consent, protecting them from unwanted trades.
Workload Management
The new CBA addresses game frequency, travel conditions, and time off. Minimum standards for charter flights and assured midseason breaks are included.
Revenue Sharing
A collectively bargained salary cap will be tied to revenue sharing and a guaranteed minimum base salary cap. Shareable revenues from NWSL’s prior year sponsorship and media rights agreements will be added to the Team Salary Cap. Audit rights are secured to ensure compliance.
The AFL-CIO Sports Council, formed in 2022, helps professional athletes form unions and improve working conditions. Members include the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA), Major League Soccer Players Association (MLSPA), National Football League Players Association (NFLPA), United Soccer League Players Association (USLPA-CWA), and Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA).
Contact: Riley Lopez, 202-637-5018
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