WE League

The WE League (Women Empowerment League) is the first professional women's football league in Japan. Officially named the Japan Women's Empowerment Professional Football League, it commenced play in September 2021. The WE League is organized by the Japan Professional Football League (J.League). The goal of the WE League is to not only raise the level of women's football in Japan but also to contribute to women's empowerment and a more equitable society. It aims to provide professional opportunities for female football players, attract larger audiences, and inspire the next generation of athletes. Participation in the WE League requires clubs to have a certain number of professional contracts and invest in youth development. The inaugural season featured 11 teams. The league operates on a single-table format where teams play each other twice, once at home and once away. The team with the most points at the end of the season is crowned champion. Promotion and relegation with lower leagues is planned for future seasons.