Intrinsic and extrinsic motivation in female football: educational and psychological perspectives on performance development

The study aimed to assess the motivational level of female football players participating in the National Championship by determining the Global Motivational Force (GMF) based on intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Motivation, understood as the internal drive that provokes, supports, and directs human activity, represents a key determinant of sports performance and a significant performance generator. This study followed a quantitative, cross-sectional research design. A questionnaire containing 14 items related to intrinsic and extrinsic motivational factors, validated by previous studies, was administered to 152 female athletes competing in the 2024 Women’s National Championship. The data were analysed to quantify the overall motivational level and identify dominant motivational sources. Findings revealed that 73% of the participants rated intrinsic motivational factors as “very important,” emphasising passion for the sport, athletic aspirations, and self-sufficiency. Extrinsic factors, including material benefits and the coach’s leadership style, were considered highly important by 70% of the athletes. The Global Motivational Force (GMF) was calculated as 5.61, and the Global Motivational Instrumentality (GMI) as 5.32, indicating a high level of intrinsic motivation complemented by valuable external incentives. Intrinsic motivation plays a decisive role in female football players’ engagement and performance, while extrinsic motivators also significantly contribute to maintaining their commitment and success in competitive sports.