A new report highlights the ongoing challenges facing the amateur game in Wales, including rising costs, volunteer shortages and a growing culture of abuse that is driving match officials away.

The 2026 Grassroots Football Report, produced by sports equipment manufacturer FORZA, surveyed volunteers from more than 40 Welsh football clubs.

Nearly 60 per cent said they had witnessed abuse directed at referees in the last year.

Seventy per cent of those surveyed identified parents and spectators as the main source of the abuse.

Referees have boycotted matches in at least one league following recent incidents, and 68 per cent of club volunteers said the referee shortage is a serious issue.

Many believe the problem starts at the top.

Eight in 10 grassroots clubs across the UK said they believe behaviour in the Premier League influences the amateur game.

Multiple survey respondents said professional players should set a better example for young fans by showing more respect to referees.

The pressures facing grassroots football go beyond the touchline.

Eighty-one per cent of Welsh clubs said costs have risen significantly in the past year, with 38 per cent naming pitch hire as the biggest financial burden.

A total of 62 per cent said there is not enough funding to keep their clubs running.

More than half of clubs also reported not having enough training equipment.

Volunteer recruitment remains a major challenge, with 83 per cent saying it is harder than ever to find people willing to help.

The report calls for urgent action at all levels of the game to address the culture of abuse, improve funding, and support the volunteers who keep the game running.

It also recommends that professional footballers take greater responsibility for their conduct on the pitch, recognising their influence on younger players and grassroots supporters.