Great news for mothers in football! FIFA has implemented significant changes to support female footballers and coaches during pregnancy, adoption, and family planning.
Here’s what’s new:
- Minimum Paid Maternity Leave: Both players and coaches are now entitled to a minimum of 14 weeks of paid maternity leave. Previously, only players received this benefit.
- Adoption Leave: For coaches and players choosing adoption, a period of leave will be granted based on the adopted child’s age.
- Family Leave: Expanded leave options are available for parents who are not the biological mother.
- Transfer Window Flexibility: Clubs can now sign replacement players outside the transfer window if a squad member is on maternity, adoption, or family leave.
- Menstrual Health Support: Players can request absence from training or matches due to menstrual health reasons while still receiving full pay.
These changes, effective from June 1st, 2024, address concerns raised by players and coaches about the challenges of motherhood in professional football.
Positive Impact:
- Jill Ellis, former US National Team coach, applauds the new policies as a “big statement” that normalizes motherhood for female athletes.
- The PFA (Professional Footballers’ Association) welcomes these changes, acknowledging the role of player feedback in shaping the policy.
- Focus on Culture: The PFA highlights the importance of fostering a supportive environment alongside these regulations.
Overall, these advancements by FIFA demonstrate a commitment to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in football, allowing them to excel both on and off the field.
