FIFA Chief: FIFPro Prioritizes Politics Over Problem-Solving
FIFA's chief legal and compliance officer, Emilio García, has accused FIFPro of engaging in sports politics and suggested that the world players' union is not focused on resolving issues. García made these remarks during a media briefing with The Athletic and various Spanish-language outlets from South America and Spain. He criticized FIFPro president Sergio Marchi for launching personal attacks against FIFA president Gianni Infantino.
Marchi had previously accused Infantino of governing the sport autocratically. In response, García expressed FIFA's disappointment with FIFPro's approach, stating that FIFPro seems more interested in generating headlines and playing sports politics rather than addressing real problems faced by players.
During a meeting hosted by Infantino in New York before the Club World Cup final on July 13 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, FIFA and other player unions agreed on a 72-hour rest period between matches and a minimum 21-day rest period at the end of each season. FIFPro, which was not invited to the meeting, had advocated for a 28-day rest period.
García acknowledged that these rest periods have been a consistent demand from players' unions, including FIFPro. However, negotiations with FIFPro, particularly with Marchi, have become challenging. Despite FIFA's efforts to address player concerns, FIFPro has shown reluctance to cooperate.
The Club World Cup, featuring 32 teams from six FIFA confederations, faced criticism for adding another major tournament to the football calendar. The tournament, played across 11 U.S. cities and 12 stadiums, encountered attendance fluctuations, weather delays, and extreme heat issues. Chelsea emerged as the winner, defeating PSG 3-0 in the final.
García highlighted a disconnect between the global footballers' union and the players they represent, emphasizing that FIFA and Infantino are working to address challenges like extreme heat ahead of the 2026 men's World Cup. Former Argentina national team midfielder Maxi Rodríguez, speaking on behalf of FIFA, shared insights on players' adaptability to varying playing conditions.
In response to FIFPro's criticisms, García defended FIFA's transparency and efforts to protect players' rights. FIFPro emphasized the need for proportional negotiating rights for player unions on matters like the match calendar. FIFA accused FIFPro of lacking financial transparency and engaging in public confrontations driven by PR battles.
García urged for constructive dialogue and negotiation, criticizing FIFPro for what he perceived as a lack of a positive and cooperative approach. He emphasized the importance of reaching agreements and working together to address issues in the best interest of players. García maintained respect for Marchi but expressed concerns about FIFPro's focus on exclusivity and financial gains over collaborative solutions.