Women’s World Cup-winning coach Jill Ellis has accepted a full-time position with FIFA as its chief football officer, a significant move announced on Tuesday.
In her new role, Ellis will collaborate with Arsène Wenger, FIFA’s chief of global football development. Their partnership began in 2021 when she took the lead in FIFA’s technical advisory group focused on women’s soccer, showcasing her dedication to advancing the women’s game.
Ellis is celebrated for guiding the United States to consecutive world championships in 2015 and 2019. During her tenure, she and Wenger supported FIFA president Gianni Infantino’s initiative to increase the frequency of World Cups from every four years to every two. However, this proposal faced opposition from soccer officials in Europe and South America and was ultimately abandoned.
FIFA emphasized that the establishment of the chief football officer position reflects its commitment to creating a diverse, inclusive, and accessible football community worldwide, ensuring that the sport remains open to all.
Prior to her new role, Ellis served as president of the San Diego Wave in the National Women’s Soccer League, a position she has now vacated.
Club owner Lauren Leichtman praised Ellis, stating, “Under Jill’s leadership, the Wave set a standard of excellence as an expansion club in the NWSL,” highlighting the impact she made during her time with the team.
