La Quiniela Embraces Equality: Liga F Joins Spain’s Traditional Betting Game

In a landmark move for women’s football in Spain, the government has approved a Royal Decree integrating Liga F—the top tier of Spanish women’s football—into La Quiniela, the state-run football betting pool celebrating its 80th anniversary in September 2026. For the first time in its history, La Quiniela will feature Liga F matches, marking a major leap toward professionalization and gender equality in sports.

Under the new measure, Liga F will receive 15% of revenues generated by the Gambling Activities Tax linked to La Quiniela. Official estimates suggest this could amount to five million euros annually, earmarked for ensuring financial viability, upgrading club infrastructure, and raising the competitive standard of the women’s league. Meanwhile, men’s football will see its share reduced from 45.5% to 30.5%, translating to an annual loss of roughly five million euros.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez hailed the decision as ‘a commitment to equality, both on and off the pitch,’ emphasizing that ‘professionalizing women’s football is far more than a sports policy—it’s a stride toward equality.’ In social media statements, Sánchez underscored how this step cements Liga F’s status as an international benchmark.

David Aganzo, president of the Spanish Footballers’ Association (AFE), celebrated the inclusion, recalling the 2019 ‘Quinielas en Femenino’ campaign that paved the way. ‘Liga F’s presence in La Quiniela is a firm step toward equality and recognition for women’s football,’ he stated, expressing pride in AFE’s role. Beatriz Álvarez, president of Liga F, added that the move ‘not only boosts visibility but also strengthens club sustainability and the league’s global growth.’

The reform also grants Loterías y Apuestas del Estado (Spain’s state lottery) discretion over how many women’s matches to include weekly in La Quiniela, guaranteeing at least one and potentially more—particularly during weeks when men’s competitions pause for international fixtures.

This historic inclusion expands La Quiniela’s betting offerings while fostering a more equitable and sustainable model for Spanish football. The initiative coincides with Liga F’s rising competitiveness, audience growth, and professionalization, promising to elevate women’s football in Spain.

With this economic boost and institutional backing, Liga F takes a decisive step toward equal opportunity and international prominence, solidifying its role as a catalyst for social progress in Spain’s most beloved sport.