FIFA Faces Legal Challenge Over Expanded Club World Cup

The world soccer players' union, FIFPRO, has filed a legal claim against FIFA over the expanded Club World Cup. The union argues that the increased demands on players' physical and mental well-being violate their rights. The case has been referred to the Brussels Court of Commerce, with potential escalation to the European Court of Justice.

The world soccer players' union, FIFPRO, has mounted a legal challenge against FIFA's decision to expand the Club World Cup. Scheduled for June-July 2025 in the United States, the event will now feature 32 teams, up from the traditional seven.

FIFPRO expressed concerns about the heightened physical and mental demands on players, as well as the impact on their personal lives. Unions in England and France filed the claim at the Brussels Court of Commerce, arguing that FIFA's unilateral decisions on the international match calendar violate players' rights.

The Brussels court has been asked to refer the case to the European Court of Justice. FIFA maintains that the timing of the tournament allows for sufficient rest, a claim disputed by FIFPRO. 'Once preparation periods and travel are included, the tournament is likely to create up to six weeks of additional work,' the union stated.

The expanded tournament could see top players face three consecutive offseasons of major competitions, as the European Championship and Copa America are set for earlier years and the World Cup follows in 2026.

'It is now up to us to ensure that the fundamental rights of players are fully respected by taking the matter to the European courts,' said FIFPRO Europe President David Terrier. Despite the union's opposition, the European Clubs Association has welcomed the tournament as 'fantastic news for club football in general.'

(This story has not been edited by Devdiscourse staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)