Too many matches? FIFA hit with antitrust complaint by European leagues, LaLiga
Xtra Time Web Desk: A joint complaint has been filed against FIFA by players' union FIFPRO Europe, the European Leagues, and Spain’s LaLiga, accusing the governing body of "abusing" its control over the international match calendar. The complaint, submitted to EU antitrust regulators, raises concerns over the impact of FIFA's scheduling on player well-being, citing fatigue, injuries, and mental stress among athletes.
The organisations argue that FIFA’s dominance over the calendar violates EU competition laws, according to a joint statement. The European Leagues, representing major competitions like the Premier League, Bundesliga, Serie A, and Ligue 1, expressed particular concerns about the expanded Club World Cup. Scheduled to take place next year in the U.S., the tournament will see 32 clubs competing over nearly a month, which could disrupt pre-season preparations aimed at boosting fan engagement worldwide.
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Premier League CEO Richard Masters highlighted the growing strain on players, saying the number of matches has pushed them to a "tipping point." LaLiga President Javier Tebas also criticised FIFA for prioritizing its own interests, ignoring the impact on the broader football ecosystem.
In a video statement shared during a press conference by the three organisations, French football star Kylian Mbappe said, "When it's too much, it's too much," echoing concerns about the demanding schedule.
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FIFA, however, defended the international match calendar, noting it was developed with input from various stakeholders, including European representatives and FIFPRO. The complaint follows the announcement of the expanded Club World Cup, as well as FIFA’s decision to increase the number of participating nations in the World Cup from 32 to 48.
The complaint comes as FIFA begins negotiations on its transfer system, which the EU recently ruled had unlawful elements that could require an overhaul.
