New Partnership formed for Walking Football in England
The Football Association [The FA] and the Walking Football Association [WFA] have today announced a new partnership for Walking Football in England to unify the game.
Following 12 months of collaborative discussions around the future of Walking Football, a new partnership has been established to help this format of the game achieve its full potential and to deliver a more consistent experience for participants at all levels.
Under the new partnership, The FA will act as the governing body for Walking Football in England, with the WFA becoming a National Delivery Partner for this format of the game.
To strengthen and develop the grassroots game throughout the country, a unified set of laws for Walking Football will be established and implemented from 2027 onwards. This follows a survey conducted in early 2026 that found 98% of respondents agreed with the need for unified laws, with 93% of respondents agreeing the need for compromise in order to bring about unification.
The partnership will also lead to the implementation of a streamlined, singular process for affiliation, competition sanctioning, and player and referee registration.
The WFA will continue to play a significant role in the growth and development of Walking Football through membership of the FA Walking Football Advisory Group and FA Walking Football Referee Development Panel. The WFA will also support in delivering refereeing continuing professional development (CPD) and remain a provider of England Teams for Walking Football.
James Kendall, The FA’s Director of Football Development, said: “Our new partnership with the Walking Football Association is a very exciting step for this flourishing format of our game, and it will ensure that it has a bright and sustainable future.
“Walking Football provides excellent opportunities for those with a love of the game to stay involved with football, and brings significant physical and mental benefits for participants of all ages, abilities and fitness levels.
“We look forward to seeing Walking Football in England go from strength to strength as a result of our partnership together.”
Andy Kille, Chair of the WFA, said: “I am delighted that we have reached this exciting stage in agreeing the partnership. Collaboration between our two organisations will benefit players, referees and the game as a whole as it continues to grow, bringing the health benefits and camaraderie of Walking Football to an increasing number of people.”