FIFPRO: “FIFA Shows No Respect for Players”
The International Federation of Professional Footballers (FIFPRO) has accused FIFA and its president, Gianni Infantino, of acting without consultation or respect for players in organizing the Club World Cup.
According to British news agency PA Media, the controversial 32-team tournament concluded on Sunday with a surprise 3-0 victory by England’s Chelsea over UEFA Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain in the final.
Infantino praised the tournament—hosted by the United States—as a success, but growing concerns were raised about player safety and recovery. Several matches were played in high temperatures, and clubs had little time to prepare for the upcoming season.
FIFPRO president Sergio Marchi criticized FIFA for prioritizing revenue over the wellbeing of players, warning that holding matches in extreme heat could become a recurring issue, especially with the next World Cup set to be hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
In a statement, Marchi said:
“While it’s true that the Club World Cup generated excitement among many fans and featured top global football stars, FIFPRO must point out a severe disconnect from the reality most players face worldwide.”
He continued:
“What was presented as a global football celebration was, in fact, an illusion orchestrated by FIFA and its president—one executed without consultation, empathy, or respect for the athletes who fuel the sport.”
He added:
“Most footballers around the world do not receive full wages, play for several months each year without any guarantee of stability, medical care, or decent working conditions—factors FIFA continues to ignore as it prioritizes financial gains over the players’ health and safety.”
