European Leagues and Players' Unions File Complaint Against FIFA Over Packed International Football Calendar
Europe's top football leagues and players' unions are set to file a formal complaint against FIFA with the European Commission. The move reflects growing concerns over the congested international football calendar.
David Terrier, president of FIFPro Europe, confirmed to AFP that a complaint is scheduled to be filed on October 14. "A first complaint was filed before the Brussels High Court. Another is being prepared by European leagues (Bundesliga, Liga, Serie A, and the Premier League, but not the French LFP) and certain players' unions," Terrier said.
This action follows a previous complaint filed in June by the French players' union (UNFP) and England's Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) against FIFA. The earlier complaint challenged FIFA's unilateral establishment of the international match calendar and the decision to expand the Club World Cup to 32 teams.
The new complaint focuses on competition rights, with European leagues arguing that the proliferation of international tournaments is diminishing the appeal of domestic competitions.
In recent statements, Manchester City midfielder Rodri warned of potential strikes by leading footballers if the scheduling pressures persist. Manchester City, winners of the 2023 Champions League, are set to face Inter Milan in their first match of the new Champions League league phase. The expanded 36-team tournament will see all clubs play eight league fixtures, with 16 teams participating in an additional two-legged play-off round before the last 16.
City is also expected to compete in an expanded Club World Cup at the season's end, potentially playing up to 75 games in total. This increased schedule puts additional strain on international players.
Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson also voiced concerns, suggesting that football authorities are neglecting the issue of fixture congestion. FIFA has previously criticized European leagues for what it termed "commercial hypocrisy," accusing them of preferring schedules filled with friendlies and summer tours that involve extensive global travel.
