Football in Wales

Football in Wales

Football in Wales (Welsh: Pêl-droed) is governed by the Welsh FA, which was set up in 1876. The Welsh FA oversees the national side and the league system. Football is considered the second sport of Wales behind rugby union, but it is the most popular participation wise.

Teams and competitions

There are currently a handful of teams based in Wales who play in the English leagues, of which Cardiff City, Swansea City and Wrexham are in the higher leagues in England. Other teams that play in the English leagues are Newport County, Merthyr Tydfil and Colwyn Bay. These 6 teams are excluded from the Welsh Cup but do compete in the FAW Premier Cup.

Prestige

The Welsh league system is ranked by UEFA in 45th place (out of 52 current members), on par with Northern Ireland and close to the likes of Azerbaijan and Malta. Therefore teams who come top of the league must start at the very early stages of European competitions such as the UEFA Cup.

Popularity

The game is popular in all parts of Wales particularly in the north and in towns or cities where there teams play in the English league or the Welsh premier league. The demand for tickets at competitive Wales internationals are usually high and Wales are one of the best supported nations in the world. The game is most popular with the working class in Wales particularly in inner city areas and council estates.

See also