World players' union FIFPRO has accused FIFA of undermining player welfare by consulting with 'fake' unions instead of recognized bodies. The criticism follows a FIFA meeting in Rabat, Morocco, where FIFPRO was not invited despite representing 66,000 players globally. FIFPRO president Sergio Marchi stated that nothing has changed in 2025 regarding the packed football calendar and player health risks.
FIFPRO has sharply criticized FIFA for not engaging with established player representative bodies during recent welfare discussions. In a letter published by the Spanish newspaper AS, FIFPRO president Sergio Marchi described FIFA's promises as 'empty words' and announced readiness to 'fight' for players' well-being. He highlighted ongoing issues in 2025, including endless seasons with matches every three days, exhausting trips, no recovery breaks, and risks to players' physical and mental health. Marchi also pointed to persistent problems like miserable wages, contract breaches, and the ignoring of a minimum one-year contract rule since 2001, affecting thousands of footballers worldwide.
The dispute centers on a FIFA meeting on player welfare held in Rabat, Morocco, over the weekend before November 12, 2025. Attended by representatives from 30 national player unions and FIFA's Players' Voice Panel of ex-players, the gathering led to announcements including a Professional Players Consultation Forum, at least 72 hours of rest between matches, 21 days between seasons, and a revived player welfare fund. FIFA president Gianni Infantino emphasized commitment to 'concrete and meaningful measures' and openness to 'respectful dialogue,' while noting strained relations with FIFPRO due to alleged 'attacks' and concerns over its financial transparency.
FIFPRO was not invited, echoing exclusion from a similar New York meeting in July 2025 ahead of the expanded 32-team Club World Cup final. Professional Footballers' Association CEO Maheta Molango called it 'sad news' that FIFA picks consultation partners over elected voices, labeling it 'very concerning' and undemocratic. Background context includes FIFPRO's legal action against FIFA over the overcrowded calendar, with Manchester City midfielder Rodri warning last year of potential strikes before suffering a season-ending knee injury.
