FIFA agrees to implement mandatory rest periods for football players

According to FIFA’s statement, a crucial meeting was held in New York between FIFA President Gianni Infantino and global player union representatives — resulting in an agreement on mandatory rest periods for players.

The key agreements include a minimum 72-hour gap between matches and a three-week rest period at season’s end — responding to burnout concerns regarding this summer’s 32-team Club World Cup implementation.

• One rest day per week managed pragmatically
• Special consideration for long-distance intercontinental travel
• Evaluation of match climate conditions
• Balance between national team and club schedules

It’s worth noting that FIFPRO and the English and French players’ unions filed a lawsuit against FIFA with the European Union about a year ago — alleging abuse of dominant position in fixture calendar expansion.

“It is important to create opportunities for players from all over the World to compete in top competitions as this boosts global football development,” stated FIFA’s official release.