Starting with the 2026/27 season, the top three WSL teams that qualify for the Women's Champions League will no longer compete in the Women's League Cup. WSL Football announced the change to ease calendar congestion and provide more game time for lower-ranked clubs and WSL2 sides.

The competition will also adopt a 'Swiss model' with a regional league phase followed by knockout rounds, guaranteeing every participant at least six fixtures. The format shift aims to create a more consistent narrative and performance rhythm for all teams involved.

Chelsea, the current holders, face Manchester United in the final on March 15. The League Cup's name is under review to reflect its new structure, and prize money will be determined by future commercial partnerships, with Subway the current sponsor.