Players Union League seal deal at the UN labor agency
The global soccer players’ union and the representatives of domestic leagues around the world have come together to strengthen their voice in the negotiations involving off-field politics such as the international match calendar and much more.
The FIFPRO union and World Leagues Forum now have signed a new agreement at the United Nations’ International Labor Organization (ILO).
“The first global agreement on working conditions and rights of professional football players.” the ILO made a statement.
This emerging step has come in place after years of tournament expansions and failed proposals for new competitions left many soccer officials feeling sidelined and active players saying their opinions were ignored.
“Stabilize the professional football environment by strengthening employer and employee representatives on a worldwide level and promoting fair conditions of employment in football.” the ILO added.
Moreover, earlier on at times of proposals getting rejected, it has divided the world of soccer in many terms, the European Super League, biennial World Cups, a $25 billion overhaul of FIFA competitions, adding more teams and co-hosts to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, and a Champions League reform plan in 2019 that would have locked in some wealthy clubs to guaranteed entries.
“Actively pursue equitable representation in international decision-making,” which is the main aim of the newly formed partnership that is under the 66-nation FIFPRO union.