England manager Sarina Wiegman has committed her future to the Lionesses by signing a two-year contract extension that will keep her in post until the conclusion of Euro 2029. According to BBC Sport, the 56-year-old's previous agreement was scheduled to conclude following next summer's World Cup, but the new terms represent a significant show of faith from the Football Association.
Wiegman's decision to extend her tenure comes on the back of guiding England to their second consecutive European Championship title, achieved through victory over Spain in the Euro 2025 final. The triumph made the Lionesses the first England team—male or female—to capture a major trophy away from home.
I am so happy to be able to carry on with this squad and cannot think of a better job in football. Working for a world-class organisation like The FA, and alongside so many people dedicated to winning England teams and the growth of our game, excites me every day.
What are Wiegman's immediate priorities?
Wiegman's focus now turns to securing England's place at the 2027 World Cup in Brazil. The Lionesses advanced to the final qualifying play-off round after dismantling Greece 8-1 on aggregate last week, setting up a two-legged tie against Ukraine. Ukraine qualified for this stage with a 4-1 aggregate victory over Slovakia, according to the England Football Association.
My main concern right now is absolutely the World Cup, and helping this squad realise their potential in the years to come. We have an important job to do to confirm our place in Brazil, and hopefully we can do that and give the country another special summer to remember next year.
England hold a commanding record against their upcoming opponents. England have won all six of their previous meetings with Ukraine, including a 3-0 victory on 9 June 2026, giving them considerable confidence heading into the play-off.
How did Wiegman build her record?
The Dutch manager replaced Phil Neville as England's head coach in September 2021 and has since established herself as one of football's most successful international managers. She guided the Lionesses to their maiden major trophy at Euro 2022, securing a 2-1 victory over Germany in the final at Wembley. England subsequently reached the 2023 World Cup final in Australia but fell short against Spain, losing 1-0.
By reaching the Euro 2025 final, Wiegman became the first women's or men's manager to reach five consecutive major international finals, a record built on her earlier success with the Netherlands, where she won the Euro 2017 title and finished as runners-up at the 2019 World Cup. Her Euro 2025 triumph made her only the second manager after Germany's Christina Theune to win three successive European Championships.
What has the FA said about the extension?
FA chief Mark Bullingham praised Wiegman's impact on English football and her unparalleled tournament record.
While we will all remember the trophies and thrilling moments she has given us, I know she is only looking forward. There is no one better to lead the Lionesses into the next two tournaments. Sarina's impact on English football has been immense, and she continues to inspire so many throughout the game. We have so much more to do in the women's game and she will be instrumental in helping us to achieve that.
Bullingham described Wiegman as an "incredible coach with an unparalleled record in major tournaments", emphasising the organisation's commitment to sustained success under her leadership.
When do the World Cup play-offs take place?
England are scheduled to play the first leg away on 26 November, with the venue still to be confirmed. The second leg will take place at Wembley on 5 December at 5:30 p.m. GMT, with the winner securing qualification for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil.
