The Tigre women's team on strike: lack of travel expenses, little investment, and institutional absence
The Tigre women's football team in Argentina has gone on strike due to insufficient support, including inadequate travel expenses and investment, following the departure of their long-time coach.
The Tigre women’s football team in Argentina has launched a strike over a lack of financial support and institutional backing, causing the players to halt training. This strike comes on the heels of the departure of Raúl Maiola, who had been their coach for seven seasons and played a pivotal role in reviving the women’s football program at the club. While the men's team enjoys great success in the current 2026 Apertura Tournament, the women’s team faces significant challenges that threaten the future of their participation in the sport.
Since the reestablishment of Tigre’s women’s team in 2019 under Maiola’s leadership, they had hoped to re-enter a sports framework that mandated programs for women. Historically, Tigre has seen a women’s team since the late 1990s, with notable players contributing to its legacy, including members of the Argentine national team. However, despite these historical achievements, the current team finds itself struggling with inadequate investment and support - a stark contrast to the successful men’s team nearby.
The players have emphasized the urgency of their situation, as they are seeking rights and recognition that seem to be sidelined in the club's priorities. Their strike highlights the broader systemic issues present in women’s sports in Argentina, where the lack of institutional support often hampers progress and development. This situation not only impacts the team's immediate functioning but could also deter potential talent from pursuing a career in women's football within the region if changes are not made promptly.