European Soccer Unions Sue FIFA Over Expanded Club World Cup Schedule

The unions representing professional soccer players in Europe have initiated legal action against FIFA over the expanded men's Club World Cup, arguing that the increased number of games violates players' rights by eliminating crucial rest periods between seasons.

On Thursday, the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) of England and France's players' union (UNFP), both members of the global FIFPRO union, submitted a legal claim with the Brussels Court of Commerce.

This action follows FIFA's decision in May to proceed with its 32-team tournament, set for June 15 to July 13 next year, despite opposition from FIFPRO and the World Leagues Association (WLA).

"Player unions believe that these decisions violate the rights of players and their unions under the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights while also potentially violating EU competition law," said PFA chief executive Maheta Molango.

"The most in-demand players are now part of an endless schedule of games and competitions for club and country, with their limits constantly being pushed through expansion and the creation of new competitions."

FIFPRO Europe member unions have lodged a legal claim against FIFA, challenging the legality of FIFA's decisions to unilaterally set the International Match Calendar (IMC), particularly the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 schedule.

The claim seeks to have the Brussels Court of Commerce refer the case to the European Court of Justice (ECJ).

FIFA did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the lawsuit.

The PFA emphasizes that the legal case aims to challenge the current football calendar's structure and ensure players' rights to guaranteed rest breaks.

Molango highlighted the players' need for adequately protected breaks to rest and recharge, which are currently compromised by the congested schedule.

Premier League players, for instance, will finish the 2024-25 season at the end of May, after which some will participate in the UEFA Nations League Finals.

The Club World Cup starts just four days later, potentially leading to a scenario where some players could be active for a full 12 months without any significant rest, as club pre-season begins in July.

Adding to the strain, all three European club competitions will expand to 36 teams starting next season, alongside the 32-team FIFA Club World Cup, which is set to be hosted in the United States.

This legal action underscores the growing tension between the players' need for rest and the expanding demands of global soccer schedules, highlighting the potential conflict between organizational decisions and players' well-being.