FIFA Faces Legal Threats Over Jam-packed Schedule: Leagues & Players Unite
FIFA, the international governing body for soccer, is facing significant backlash over its decision to expand and add new competitions to an already congested calendar of men’s international soccer. The move has prompted warnings of potential legal action from players and national leagues.
Unilateral Decisions Criticised
In a letter sent by the global players union FIFPRO and the World Leagues Association, FIFA is criticised for making unilateral decisions that primarily benefit its own competitions and commercial interests.
The letter claims it is “unilateral decisions that benefit its own competitions and commercial interests.”
The letter asserts that FIFA's ongoing practice of adding games while compelling players and leagues to adjust is deemed "inherently abusive".
Players and Leagues Demand Action
FIFA is urged to reconsider its plans and reschedule the revamped Club World Cup, which is scheduled to debut in the United States in June 2025. "FIFA has ignored repeated attempts by leagues and unions to engage on this issue," FIFPRO and World Leagues said, aiming to step up pressure before the soccer body’s ruling council and congress meeting next week in Bangkok, Thailand.
Legal Action Threatened
If FIFA fails to address their concerns, FIFPRO and World Leagues warn that they will advise their members on potential legal action. "Should FIFA refuse to formally commit to resolving the issues, as set out above, at its upcoming council, we shall be compelled to advise our members on the options available to them, both individually and collectively, to proactively safeguard their interests," the letter stated.
UEFA's Expansion Adds to Concerns
In addition to FIFA's actions, UEFA's expansion of its club competitions is exacerbating concerns about player workloads and domestic fixture schedules. "Players are being pushed beyond their limits, with significant injury risks and impacts on their welfare and fundamental rights," FIFPRO and World Leagues warn, adding that the fixture squeeze is harming the ability of leagues to organise properly.
"Players are being stretched beyond their capacities, exposing them to significant injury risks and jeopardising their well-being and fundamental rights," caution FIFPRO and World Leagues, emphasising that the fixture congestion is also impeding the proper organisation of leagues.
Financial Motivations
FIFA's aggressive expansion plans are driven by financial considerations, with revenue projections exceeding $11 billion from 2023-2026. This includes money from the inaugural Club World Cup expansion and a top-tier sponsorship confirmed last month with Saudi Arabia state oil firm Aramco.
Infantino Defends Expansion
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has consistently defended the expansion, arguing that the additional revenue and playing opportunities are needed to raise the level of teams from outside Europe and South America. However, critics contend that these decisions prioritise financial gain over the well-being of players and the integrity of the sport.