This unprecedented gathering brought together representatives from 30 players’ unions across five continents, along with former legends and iconic football figures, including George Weah. Led by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, accompanied by Secretary General Mattias Grafström, the discussions focused on improving working conditions and protecting players’ rights.
A global platform dedicated to players
Following the talks, FIFA announced the creation of a permanent platform dedicated to the well-being and protection of professional footballers. This new structure will serve as a permanent space for dialogue between the global governing body and players’ unions, and will help establish a unified social and legal framework at the international level.
Gianni Infantino also announced the creation of a Global Player Support Fund, with a budget of 20 million dollars for the 2026 to 2029 period. This fund will be used to compensate players who have not received their salaries due to financial difficulties faced by their clubs.
Balancing performance and health
The Forum adopted several major recommendations aimed at preserving the physical and mental health of players. Among the new standards discussed:
- A minimum of 72 hours of rest between two official matches
- 21 consecutive days of rest between two sports seasons
- One mandatory day off per week
- Systematic consideration of transcontinental travel and extreme climatic conditions in the international calendar
These measures respond to a growing concern in modern football: protecting career longevity and ensuring a sustainable balance between performance, health, and personal life.
Greater player involvement in governance
FIFA also confirmed the inclusion of players’ union representatives within several of its decision-making committees. In addition, a joint FIFA-unions task force will be created to handle sensitive legal matters, including transfers, contractual disputes, and minimum professional standards.
Rabat, a new hub for sports governance
The choice of Morocco to host this first Forum carries strategic significance. The Kingdom is once again strengthening its position as an international platform for dialogue and the modernization of sports policies. This initiative aligns with Morocco’s ongoing efforts toward openness and reform at both the continental and global levels.
The Forum concluded with a clear commitment: to institutionalize this framework for consultation and establish Rabat as a key anchor point for future discussions between FIFA and professional football stakeholders.
Editorial team/le7tv