FIFA announced on Thursday that it has extended invitations to FIFPRO Europe and the European Leagues body for discussions following a dispute over the football calendar. The conflict arose after FIFPRO and European Leagues, representing over a thousand clubs across 33 countries, lodged a complaint with the European Commission, alleging FIFA’s misuse of its authority regarding the international match schedule. They claim FIFA’s actions have negatively impacted the financial interests of national leagues and the well-being of players, arguing that FIFA’s dual role as both regulator and competition organizer poses a conflict of interest.
“A FIFA spokesperson stated today that FIFA has renewed its invitation to meet and discuss the calendar with the World Leagues Association and FIFPRO, after receiving no response to a letter sent on May 10, 2024,” FIFA stated.
“FIFA believes that engaging in dialogue offers a more constructive path forward for football than resorting to legal action, and the invitation for discussions remains open,” the spokesperson added.
FIFA emphasized its commitment to serving and balancing the global interests of football, including player protection, and asserted its dedication to making decisions that benefit the sport worldwide.
The controversy stems partly from FIFA’s recent calendar adjustments, such as the introduction of a 32-team Club World Cup. The inaugural expanded tournament is scheduled for June and July next year in the United States, involving 12 European clubs. This scheduling decision has raised concerns as it compels many of Europe’s top players to participate during what would traditionally be their extended off-season, coming just a year before the expanded 48-team World Cup in North America.
