FC Utrecht Women is developing a plan to become financially independent by 2030 after the club reduced its budget for the women’s branch. Manager Marlou Peeters said the branch is no longer running at a deficit, although shareholders still provide support. The club wants to attract investors and sponsors specifically for the women’s team and eventually operate with its own management and accommodation. It is also considering joining the first collective labour agreement for women’s football next year.

The cuts followed a strong previous season but led to 13 players and coach Linda Helbling leaving, while the team was rebuilt largely with youth players under Sylvia Smit. Training moved from Zoudenbalch to amateur club VV De Meern, and some staff positions were reduced or made voluntary. On the field, Utrecht won for the first time at the end of October but remained last after nine matches. Peeters said the season’s aim is to finish in the top six, while acknowledging that the 2030 target may not be realistic because no investor has yet been secured and the stability of the competition remains uncertain.