In a development, the European Leagues and the FIFPRO Europe Players Union are pursuing a legal battle against FIFA regarding excessive international matches that they believe to be “saturated” and “unsustainable.”
The legal complaint alleges that FIFA’s actions have been self-serving. Thereby benefitting the World Cup and other associated FIFA competitions and sponsorships over national leagues and player well-being. This is coming after several complaints from top players and coaches regarding tight fixtures detrimental to players’ well-being. Meanwhile, the footballing world awaits an outcome on the legal suite.
FIFA Actions and Basis of Legal Complaint
Amidst the complaints from coaches and notable players on the cumbersome fixtures proposed by FIFA. Regardless, it’ll hold its first tournament of the Club World Cup with an increased number format for 32 teams competing. the duration of the tournament is expected to last for four weeks, starting from June to July. In addition, a new event known as the FIFA Intercontinental Club will replace the Club World Cup held every December.
However, the tight schedules are detrimental to players’ well-being as they’ll be meant to tirelessly engage in numerous completions. As a result, it might lead to persistent injuries, fatigue, and reduced intensity for an entertaining performance. However, efforts were made by the European Leagues and FIFPRO to engage FIFA on decisions on the international match calendar. Despite concerns raised, FIFA has consistently refused to include requisite national leagues and player union bodies in its decision-making process.
According to the details of the complaint, FIFA violates EU competition law. Therefore, abusing its 50% controlling influence through both regulation and organization. In the complaint, it’s said that international matches are no longer feasible for national leagues. In addition, it may harm players’ physical well-being due to FIFA’s lack of proper governing body obligations.
Statement from European Leagues and FIFPRO Europe on FIFA
European Leagues and FIFPRO Europe in a formal statement have made it clear that they have been insisting on the governing body to come up with a clear, transparent, and fair process regarding the international match calendar. Hence, the reason for the decision to file a complaint to the EC. Apparently, in a bid to defend football, its system, and its workforce against FIFA’s unilateral decisions. However, the complaint is expected to elaborate on FIFA’s violation of EU competition law and engagement in an abuse of dominance.
Meanwhile, the legal complaint will be filed by European Leagues, La Liga, and FIFPRO Europe as the top-tier complaint. While the tournaments and teams made up of individual leagues and player unions at the national level will pursue other legal actions simultaneously. Meanwhile, the player unions of England, France, and Italy have already filed legal action back in June before the Brussels commercial court.
However, Leagues and FIFPRO Europe have reported the decision to the European Commission. With expectations of closely working with relevant public institutions and football stakeholders during the investigations.
Conclusion
This case of legal proceedings is an indication of FIFA’s conflicting relationships with several stakeholders within the football community. However, the consequences of the legal complaint and eventually the investigation performed by the European Commission can have an impact on the match fixture list on the international level and the cooperation between FIFA, national championships, and players’ unions.
However, numerous fixtures and the possible impact on players cannot be overemphasized, as it’ll reduce performances on the pitch. Meanwhile, sports enthusiast awaits the probable outcome that’ll result from the legal pursuit.
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