FIFPRO and European Leagues Sue FIFA Over Calendar

FIFPRO, the players' union, alongside top European leagues, has filed a legal complaint against FIFA with the European Commission, claiming an 'abuse of dominance' regarding the international football calendar. The complaint highlights concerns over FIFA's unilateral decisions, particularly the upcoming 2026 Club World Cup, which players argue exacerbates an already congested fixture schedule, impacting their health and career longevity. The complaint also states that FIFA has failed to engage meaningfully with leagues and players, violating European competition law. Players have voiced frustrations about the lack of consultation on the increasing number of matches, with many expressing exhaustion and injuries due to the packed schedule. This legal action follows previous complaints from various player associations and is seen as a pivotal moment in addressing the unsustainable demands placed on players by FIFA's expansion of competitions. The outcome of this complaint could significantly alter FIFA's approach to managing the international match calendar.