She takes on the role immediately under a contract that extends through the qualification campaign for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Ireland will kick off their 2025 UEFA Nations League campaign on Friday, February 21, with a home match against Turkey at Tallaght Stadium.
Ward brings a wealth of experience, having previously managed Sheffield United, Birmingham City, and Aston Villa.
Expressing her excitement about the new role, Ward said: “I’m hugely excited to get started with the Ireland women’s national team. This is an incredible opportunity—not just with the squad but also in contributing to the ongoing development of women’s and girls’ football.
It’s a new day.
— Ireland Football ⚽️🇮🇪 (@IrelandFootball) January 15, 2025
Introducing our Women’s National Team Head Coach, Carla Ward ☘️ pic.twitter.com/QCTwd6q0CL
Over the next two and a half years, as we prepare for the World Cup, we have a real chance to make an impact, and I can’t wait to get going.”
FAI Chief Football Officer Marc Canham welcomed the appointment, stating: “We are delighted to bring in a coach of Carla’s caliber. Securing such a high-quality coach reflects our ambition for the women’s national team and where we believe it can go.”
FAI CEO David Courell added: “Carla possesses the ideal combination of expertise and experience to help us achieve our goal of qualifying for major tournaments, competing with the world’s best, and continuing to grow support for women’s football in Ireland.”