Institutional Constraints and Reform Pathways for the Revitalization of Chinese Women’s Football

Abstract

To address the developmental challenges hindering the revival of Chinese women's football, this study employs documentary analysis and interviews to investigate the underlying factors from an institutional perspective. The findings reveal that the core issues stem from the dual failure of the state-led "whole-nation system" and the market mechanism. These are manifested through four institutional dilemmas: ambiguous division of responsibilities among governance bodies, a fractured youth training system, a pseudo-professional league structure, and inadequate athlete support mechanisms. These factors are intertwined, creating a path-dependent cycle that perpetuates systemic inefficiencies. Accordingly, the study proposes institutional reconstruction as the fundamental solution, encompassing: 1) establishing a polycentric governance model with shared responsibilities; 2) deepening the integration of sports and education to rebuild talent pipelines; 3) advancing genuine commercial operation of leagues; and 4) strengthening athlete protection and incentive systems.