FIFA is facing criticism over its failure to pay the final portion of agreed sums to players across Europe whose contracts were not honoured by their clubs.
Despite some payments being made, sources report that the remaining amount, due in September 2023, remains outstanding.
Many affected players, some of whom are unemployed or retired, are reliant on the funds from FIFA’s Player Fund, which was established in 2020 to assist in such cases.
The total amount owed to 420 players is reported to be £3.09 million. An email sent from a national union pleading with FIFA to release the funds, highlighted the financial struggles of more than 30 players.
FIFA’s delay in payments comes amid an ongoing dispute with global players’ union, FIFPro, over changes to the international match calendar.
FIFPro, supported by the Professional Footballers’ Association, argues that the expanded 32-team Club World Cup, set for next summer in the USA, places excessive demands on elite players, heightening the risk of injury.
The dispute is further complicated by FIFA’s failure to finalise television contracts or announce the prize money for the upcoming tournament. FIFA has yet to comment on the allegations or the dispute.
Melissa Enoch
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