Sept. 27, 2026

Who’s watching women’s sport? With Chelsea Women CEO Aki Mandhar

Who’s watching women’s sport? With Chelsea Women CEO Aki Mandhar
Who’s watching women’s sport? With Chelsea Women CEO Aki Mandhar
Leaders Worth Knowing Podcast
Who’s watching women’s sport? With Chelsea Women CEO Aki Mandhar

Aki Mandhar, CEO of Chelsea Women, is the first guest in a new series, from Leaders and research agency GWI, exploring demographics, attitudes and priorities amongst fans of women’s sport.

GWI’s Director of Research Services Peter Kent joins David Cushnan, to frame up the conversations through GWI’s extensive data on the topic.

In this episode, Mandhar explains how Chelsea think about, segment and then serve its fans, on and off the field; how the club is creating distinct event experiences for different kick-off times; why and how it has launched an extensive package of maternity and fertility support for players; and how clubs like Chelsea can maximise the momentum next year’s Women’s World Cup will generate.

She also tackles the sceptics of women’s football and its business model, and shares the skillsets you might need to work with her, at this point in the commercial development of women’s football.

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Leaders Week London takes place next week at Stamford Bridge, home of Chelsea FC and Chelsea Women. It’s where global sport does business. The Summit is next Tuesday and Wednesday (7th and 8th October) - head to leadersinsport.com/leadersweek to secure your pass.