What Does 150 Years of the FAW Reveal About Pele, Borrowed Kits, and Euro Glory?

The Football Association of Wales (FAW) is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year, marking its position as the third oldest football association in the world. Established on 2 February 1876 in Wrexham, the FAW has evolved significantly from its origins, transforming Welsh football and leaving a lasting impact on both men’s and women’s games. This article dives into the rich history of the FAW, highlighting key moments that shaped Welsh football over the last century and a half.

Last updated: 30 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The FAW's 150th anniversary is not just a celebration of its past but also a pivotal moment for the future of Welsh football. With recent achievements in both men’s and women’s football, the FAW is set to build on its legacy. The Welsh national teams are gaining recognition and support, as evidenced by the men's team reaching the knockout stages of major tournaments and the women’s team qualifying for Euro 2025.

Key takeaways

The FAW was founded on 2 February 1876 in Wrexham, making it one of the oldest football associations globally.
Wales' first international match took place on 25 March 1876, resulting in a 4-0 loss to Scotland.
The women's national team faced significant challenges until the FAW took formal control in 1993.
Euro 2016 marked a historic moment for the men’s team, showcasing a "golden generation" of players.
The women's team recently qualified for Euro 2025, marking a significant step forward in their development.

Timeline: how we got here

Understanding the journey of the FAW involves looking back at key milestones since its inception:

2 February 1876: FAW established at the Wynnstay Arms Hotel in Wrexham.
25 March 1876: Wales plays its first international match against Scotland.
1881: Wales secures its first win against England.
1958: Men's team qualifies for the World Cup for the first time.
1993: FAW takes control of the women's national team.
2016: Men's team achieves remarkable success at Euro 2016.
2025: Women's team qualifies for Euro 2025.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

As part of the FAW's 150th celebrations, initiatives are being launched to inspire the next generation of footballers in Wales. These include grassroots development programmes aimed at encouraging youth participation, particularly among girls, as the sport gains popularity.

What was already established

The history of the FAW is rich with notable achievements, including the establishment of the men’s team in the late 19th century and the eventual recognition of the women’s team in the 1990s. The FAW's commitment to developing football across all levels has been a consistent theme throughout its history.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The FAW's initiatives are expected to have a positive impact on local communities and households in Wales. Increased participation in football can lead to stronger community ties and promote healthier lifestyles among families.

Businesses and jobs

The growth of Welsh football, particularly with the success of both national teams, can attract tourism and investment in local businesses. Events like Euro 2025 will likely bolster the hospitality and service sectors as fans flock to watch the matches.

Policy and regulation

The FAW's evolution reflects broader changes in sports policy and regulation in the UK. The commitment to women's football aligns with government initiatives aimed at promoting gender equality in sports, which may lead to further investment and support at various levels.

Numbers that matter

150: Years since the FAW was established.
3: The FAW is the third oldest football association in the world.
4: The score of Wales' first international match against Scotland.
17: Titles won by The New Saints in the Cymru Premier.
20,000: Number of girls and women registered to play football in Wales.

Definitions and jargon buster

FAW: Football Association of Wales, the governing body of football in Wales.
Cymru Premier: The top tier of professional football in Wales, previously known as the League of Wales.
Red Wall: A term used to describe the passionate Welsh football supporters.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Fans can expect announcements regarding upcoming events and initiatives aimed at celebrating the FAW's 150th anniversary, including community outreach programmes and fan engagement activities.

Medium term (1–6 months)

The focus will shift towards the Euro 2025 preparations for the women's team, with training camps and friendly matches likely to be scheduled to build team cohesion and performance.

Signals to watch

Updates on grassroots football initiatives and participation rates.
Performance of the women’s team in upcoming matches leading up to Euro 2025.
Public engagement with FAW events and community activities.

Practical guidance

Do

Participate in local football clubs to support grassroots initiatives.
Encourage young people, especially girls, to take up football.
Attend matches to support local teams and the national sides.

Don’t

Ignore the importance of women’s football in shaping the sport's future in Wales.
Overlook the contributions of historical figures in Welsh football.
Miss opportunities to engage with community events celebrating the FAW's history.

Checklist

Check local clubs for youth programmes and registration details.
Follow updates on the FAW’s initiatives and events.
Engage with social media campaigns promoting football in Wales.
Explore opportunities for volunteering in local football events.
Support initiatives aimed at increasing female participation in sports.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the FAW celebrates its achievements, challenges remain. The ongoing development of women’s football requires sustained investment and support. Additionally, potential shifts in football governance, both domestically and internationally, may affect the landscape of Welsh football. It is essential to remain aware of these dynamics as the FAW navigates its future.

Bottom line

The FAW's 150-year journey is a testament to the resilience and passion of Welsh football. As it celebrates this significant milestone, the focus remains on fostering growth at all levels of the sport, inspiring future generations, and solidifying Wales' position on the international football stage. The future looks promising, with hopes of continued success for both men's and women's teams.

FAQs

What is the significance of the FAW's 150th anniversary?

The FAW's 150th anniversary marks a milestone in Welsh football, celebrating its history and achievements while setting the stage for future growth and development.

When was the FAW founded?

The FAW was founded on 2 February 1876, making it the third oldest football association in the world.

What recent achievements has the Welsh national women's team accomplished?

The Welsh women's national team recently qualified for Euro 2025, marking a significant moment in their history and the growth of women's football in Wales.