WSL concerned by Sky broadcast slots after low TV audience figures for derby

Mon, 24 Nov 2025

• Arsenal v Chelsea was watched by only 71,000 viewers

• Saturday noon kick-off believed to be a factor in drop-off

The Women’s Super League is concerned about its broadcast slots this season after only 71,000 people watched televised coverage of the flagship fixture between Arsenal and Chelsea this month.

The average audience on Sky Sports Main Event was 55,900 – lower than the 57,000 attendance at the Emirates Stadium – with a further 15,100 viewers tuning in on Sky Sports Premier League. The corresponding fixture last season attracted an audience of 732,000 because it was free-to-air on the BBC and took place during the men’s international break.