Wales Women Head Coach Rhian Wilkinson has signed a two-year contract extension which will see her lead the team through the 2027 Nations League and EURO 2029 campaigns.
Wilkinson, who was appointed manager in February 2024, guided Wales to their first ever women’s major tournament when they qualified for UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 during her first year in charge.
After topping their qualifying group, Wales made history during a special night in Dublin, beating the Republic of Ireland in front of over 25,000 fans at the Aviva Stadium to reach the finals tournament where they faced the Netherlands, France and England in Switzerland.
The contract extension comes following a positive start to the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 qualifying campaign. Cymru, who currently sit second in Group B1 on goal difference, face Montenegro in Podgorica (Friday 5 June) and Czechia at the Cardiff City Stadium (Tuesday 9 June) for the final matches of the group stage.
Speaking about the contract extension, Wilkinson said: “I’m incredibly proud and privileged to have the role of Cymru Head Coach, and I’m very excited to take this team further on its journey. We have a special group of players that deserve to be in major tournaments, as well as future stars that will be at a key moment in their development over the next few years.”
“I’m excited for the Red Wall to see the team develop even further over the next few years and I would like to thank the FAW for giving me the opportunity to continue my work.”
The FAW’s Chief Football Officer, Dr. David Adams said; “We are very excited to share the news that Rhian’s contract has been extended.”
“Rhian’s work has delivered success for our National Team in recent years and her role, along with other Head Coaches across the National Team pathway, will work to ensure successful transition of youth players into the Women’s National Team across the next 2-4 year cycle.”
Noel Mooney, the FAW’s Chief Executive, also expressed his delight at the news. “I am thrilled that Rhian has agreed to extend her time at the FAW as the Cymru Women’s National Team Head Coach.”
“After the success in recent years, we now look forward to seeing how Rhian and the team develop further as we aim to reach more major tournaments and grow the Women’s and Girls’ game in Wales.”
More from the world of women’s football
Take a look inside the latest issue of Her Goal Magazine, featuring West Ham United and Japan international Riko Ueki, a FREE Lauren James poster, Alejandra Bernabé, Ashleigh Weerden, Maria Thorisdottir, Emma Watson, Mia McAulay and much more from across the women’s game.
Packed with exclusive interviews, player features, posters, quizzes and in-depth stories from across women’s football — including players, clubs and articles just like the one you’re reading here.
This issue is only available to buy in our online shop!