Bojiq MitkovaNoneva, IDENTIFYING THE MAIN OBSTACLES TO THE PROMOTION OF WOMEN'S FOOTBALL AND DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES (National Sports Academy Vasil Levski - Sofia)

Abstract

Women’s football is undergoing significant development but continues to
face serious challenges that hinder its popularization. This article aims to explore the main
barriers to the expansion of women’s football, focusing on socio-cultural stereotypes, lack of
media coverage, insufficient funding, limited access to sports facilities, and a shortage of
qualified coaches. Through a national survey, various factors influencing interest in women’s
football in Bulgaria are analyzed, while solutions and strategic guidelines are proposed to
overcome these obstacles and promote the sport’s growth.