FIFPRO Accuses FIFA of Using “Fake” Player Unions

FIFA has been accused of undermining genuine efforts to improve player welfare by consulting with organizations described as “FIFA-friendly” rather than engaging with recognized player representative bodies.

The global players’ union FIFPRO, which represents 66,000 players, criticized FIFA for creating these groups for consultation purposes, claiming the governing body has used similar strategies with agents and fans, describing it as a “concerning pattern.”

FIFPRO stated that it was not invited to the recent FIFA meeting in Rabat, Morocco, where officials announced new player welfare initiatives.

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FIFA’s Rabat Meeting and Announced Measures

FIFA held a weekend meeting on player welfare in Rabat, attended by representatives from 30 national player unions and members of its Players’ Voice Panel, an advisory group of former players.

Measures announced included:

• Creation of a Professional Players Consultation Forum
• Support for rules ensuring at least 72 hours of rest between matches
• Minimum of 21 days between seasons
• Plans to establish a player welfare fund

FIFA president Gianni Infantino emphasized the organization’s commitment to improving conditions for players:

“We remain committed to further enhancing player welfare and working conditions across the world by implementing concrete and meaningful measures with a view to improving football for the future.”

However, FIFPRO pointed out that FIFA had previously established a player welfare fund but scrapped it in 2022, raising questions about the sincerity and effectiveness of the current measures.

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Ongoing Concerns Over Crowded Football Calendar

Player welfare has been an increasing concern, with FIFPRO taking legal action against FIFA last month, citing the packed football calendar as a major risk to players’ health.

Last year, Manchester City midfielder Rodri highlighted these issues, warning that players were close to striking due to the increase in games. Shortly after, he suffered a season-ending knee injury.

The Rabat meeting follows a similar event in New York in July, which FIFPRO also was not invited to. That session coincided with the eve of the Club World Cup final, a tournament expanded by FIFA from seven teams to 32.

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Implications for Player Welfare and Governance

FIFA’s approach has sparked debate over player representation, transparency, and the governing body’s priorities. Critics argue that consulting non-representative groups undermines meaningful progress in player welfare, while supporters highlight FIFA’s ongoing initiatives to improve rest periods and support structures.

The dispute highlights the tension between FIFA’s expanding global tournaments and the growing concern over player health, recovery, and safety.