- PFA is taking a stand against Fifa's football calendar
- Fifa previously denied accusations of neglecting player unions'
- He emphasizes the disregard for players' rights
The Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) is taking a stand against Fifa’s “overloaded and unworkable” football calendar.
Joining forces with the French players’ union and backed by Fifpro, the European office of the global players’ union, they have filed a legal action at the Brussels court of commerce.
The lawsuit targets Fifa’s authority to unilaterally set the international match schedule, particularly its decision to create and schedule an expanded Club World Cup in 2025.
This revamped tournament, set for the United States between June 15th and July 13th, will feature 12 European teams, further cramming the calendar.
The PFA argues this congested schedule violates players’ legal right to guaranteed and protected breaks between seasons.
They believe the Club World Cup, confirmed by Fifa in December 2022, is the “tipping point” for an unsustainable calendar that hinders player well-being.
Fifa previously denied accusations of neglecting player unions’ concerns regarding the Club World Cup. While open to discussions, they maintain their stance on hosting the tournament as planned, despite the legal challenge.
“The fixture calendar is undeniably broken,” stated PFA chief executive Maheta Molango. He emphasizes the disregard for players’ rights and the legal ramifications of decisions made by governing bodies.
“Players are being ignored,” Molango continues. “They deserve action. As their union, it’s our duty to enforce their legal rights as employees. This is the moment to act.”
