The Dutch professional footballers’ union, VVCS, has officially backed a class action lawsuit initiated by the Justice for Players Foundation (JfP) against FIFA’s transfer regulations. This legal challenge, also involving the Dutch football federation (KNVB) and several European associations, claims that current transfer rules violate European Union laws, particularly the principle of free movement of workers.
This litigation follows a pivotal ruling by the European Court of Justice in October 2024, which determined that some FIFA transfer regulations unlawfully restricted workers’ mobility. The case originated from the situation of former French international Lassana Diarra, who faced a €10 million fine from FIFA after terminating his contract with Lokomotiv Moscow. The court’s decision has opened avenues for broader legal challenges to FIFA’s transfer system.
VVCS Chair Evgeniy Levchenko highlighted the detrimental impact of the existing transfer system on thousands of players throughout Europe, noting widespread issues with transfer disputes and restrictive regulations. Supporting the lawsuit aligns with VVCS’s goal of establishing a fair and legally compliant transfer framework.
The class action, led by JfP, aims to secure compensation for around 100,000 professional footballers active in Europe since 2002. Experts estimate that players have lost about 8% in career earnings due to FIFA’s restrictive practices. The lawsuit seeks to replace harsh breach clauses with fairer, more transparent transfer mechanisms, potentially catalyzing significant reforms in the football transfer process.
VVCS’s support for the lawsuit reflects a growing movement among European player unions, including the recent backing from France’s UNFP. The results of these legal actions could profoundly affect FIFA’s transfer regulations and the overall financial landscape of professional football.
Do you think FIFA should be held accountable for their transfer regulations? Im all for players rights! #SupportDutchPlayersAssoc
Do you think FIFA will actually change their transfer regulations or this is just another empty threat? Curious to see how this plays out.
I think its about time someone stood up to FIFAs transfer rules. Players deserve more freedom and fair treatment. #SupportLegalAction
Should FIFA be held accountable for unfair transfer regulations? Lets discuss the impact on players and the future of the game.
I think the Dutch players association taking legal action against FIFA is a bold move. Its about time players rights are taken seriously.
I cant believe FIFA is still getting away with these shady transfer regulations. Its about time someone stood up to them!
Should FIFA be held accountable for restricting player transfers? Interesting debate, curious to see how this legal action unfolds.
Do you think FIFAs transfer regulations are fair or oppressive? Lets discuss the impact on players rights and the future of football.
Do the players really need legal action, or is this just stirring the pot? Lets hear both sides.