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FIFA has dismissed complaints of an unstainable calendar in the wake of a legal action from European Leagues and FIFPRO Europe who accuse them of ‘killing’ players.
FIFA has responded to a legal complaint filed by European Leagues and FIFPRO Europe over the congested football calendar.
European leagues and the players have joined forces to launch a legal action against FIFA over what they feel is an unsustainable schedule for international matches.
Players in countries like England have to play four competitions while there are international and friendly matches in between during the FIFA break while the global football governing body has also scheduled the expanded Club World Cup next June.
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However, FIFA has defended itself over the complaints, saying the calendar is a result of a unanimous decision by representatives from all continents, including Europe.
“The current calendar was unanimously approved by the FIFA Council, which is composed of representatives from all continents, including Europe, following a comprehensive and inclusive consultation, which included FIFPRO and league bodies,” FIFA said in a statement.
“FIFA’s calendar is the only instrument ensuring that international football can continue to survive, co-exist, and prosper alongside domestic and continental club football.”
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The world football governing body then claimed the European leagues have put commercial interest ahead of the players and should not be complaining.
“Some leagues in Europe - themselves competition organisers and regulators - are acting with commercial self-interest, hypocrisy, and without consideration to everyone else in the world. Those leagues apparently prefer a calendar filled with friendlies and summer tours, often involving extensive global travel,” added FIFA.
“By contrast, FIFA must protect the overall interests of world football, including the protection of players, everywhere and at all levels of the game.”
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European Leagues and FIFPRO Europe had earlier complained of FIFA turning a deaf ear to their pleas.
"Following decisions by their respective executive bodies, European Leagues and FIFPRO Europe will jointly file a formal complaint to the European Commission on competition law grounds against FIFA regarding the international match calendar," read a joint statement read from European Leagues and FIFPRO Europe.
"For several years, the leagues and player unions have repeatedly urged FIFA to develop a clear, transparent, and fair process regarding the international match calendar. The latest formal request was sent ahead of the FIFA Congress and Council in May 2024. Regretfully, FIFA has consistently refused to include national leagues and player unions in its decision-making process.”
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