FIFPRO Raises Concerns Over Congested Women’s Football Calendar

A report by the International Federation of Professional Footballers (FIFPRO) highlights a concerning gap in women’s football, with some players facing intense pressure due to increasingly packed schedules, while others suffer from a lack of games.

Research by “Football Benchmark” revealed that some players participated in over 60 matches last season, while others played fewer than 10. This disparity is largely due to new or expanded competitions in Europe and North America, with little development elsewhere.

The FIFPRO study, which surveyed 300 players, found that Barcelona and Spain player Mariona Caldentey played the most matches (64), while the average was 33, less than one game per week, with breaks in the season.

Dr. Alex Culvin, FIFPRO’s Head of Women’s Football Policy, commented: “There is uneven development in women’s football. A small percentage of players face relentless pressure due to match schedules and the intensity of play. Their issues are not just about the number of games but also the lack of mandatory rest periods. These players are constantly burdened both physically and mentally.”

Culvin added: “On the other hand, some players play fewer matches, less than one per week, increasing their injury risk due to inconsistent training and gameplay.”

The study, titled “From Overplay to Underplay… A Tale of Two Industries”, also highlighted disparities in preparation for the Paris 2024 Olympics.

For example, Roma defender Moeka Minami played over 4,500 minutes in official matches in the 12 months leading up to the Olympics, while some of her Japanese teammates barely played 1,000 minutes.

Seventeen players in Spain’s Olympic squad played at least 30 matches ahead of the Olympics, compared to just five in Colombia’s squad.

FIFPRO noted that domestic leagues in Germany, Italy, Japan, Sweden, and the U.S. have expanded or plan to expand, while England’s Women’s Super League last grew in 2018.

The inaugural FIFA Women’s Club World Cup is set for 2026, featuring 16 teams.