FIFA, football’s global governing body, is facing criticism over allegations that it has failed to pay the final installments owed to hundreds of players across Europe, whose contracts were not honoured by their clubs. The money, promised through FIFA’s Fund for Players, was due in September 2023, but sources from several countries claim that many players are still waiting for their payments.
The affected players, many of whom are now unemployed or retired, were relying on the final payments, which are said to be vital for their financial stability. A total of £3.09 million is owed to 420 players, with some of the amounts being particularly significant for those who are struggling to make ends meet.
FIFA established its Fund for Players in 2020, with the intention of providing financial assistance to players whose clubs had failed to honour contractual agreements. The fund aimed to support players who were left unpaid, helping to alleviate the financial burden on those most vulnerable. Payments from the fund were scheduled in stages, with the final installment expected to be disbursed in September 2023.
However, according to several sources familiar with the situation, FIFA has failed to pay the final installment, leaving many players in a precarious situation. BBC Sport has obtained an email sent by a national football union to FIFA, naming more than 30 players and outlining the financial difficulties they are facing. The union pleads for FIFA to release the outstanding funds, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
For the players involved, the missing payments represent more than just delayed financial compensation—they are a lifeline. Many of the affected players have either left the game or are currently unemployed, with the unpaid sums representing a significant portion of their income. For retired players, particularly those who did not earn the lucrative salaries seen at the top levels of the sport, these payments are crucial to maintaining financial security.
One player, who requested anonymity, said: “This money is essential for me and my family. We trusted FIFA to help us in our time of need, but it feels like we’ve been forgotten.”
The delay in payments is particularly concerning, as many of these players are no longer in the prime of their careers and have fewer opportunities to earn income from football. The uncertainty surrounding their financial future has left them anxious and frustrated.
The issue of the unpaid sums comes at a time when FIFA is embroiled in a dispute with the global players’ union FIFPro. The two organizations are at odds over proposed changes to the international match calendar, which FIFPro argues places excessive demands on elite players. The expanded 32-team Club World Cup, set to take place in the United States next summer, is a particular point of contention.
FIFPro, backed by the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA), has voiced concerns that the expanded tournament will increase the risk of player injuries due to an already congested schedule. The union has called for better protections for players, including limits on the number of matches played per season. Despite these concerns, FIFA has pushed ahead with plans for the tournament, although no television contracts have been negotiated, nor has the prize money for the event been confirmed.
As the dispute with FIFPro continues, FIFA’s failure to address the outstanding payments has added to the growing criticism of the organization. While some payments from the Fund for Players were made, the delay in settling the final installment has left many questioning FIFA’s commitment to supporting players, particularly those who are no longer in the spotlight.
FIFA has yet to comment on the situation or provide any explanation for the delayed payments. The organization has been approached for a response, but so far has remained silent on the issue. FIFA’s failure to pay out the final sums owed to over 400 players has raised serious concerns about its handling of the Fund for Players and its commitment to supporting those most in need. For the players affected, many of whom are facing financial difficulties, the delay in payments has only added to their anxiety. As the dispute with FIFPro over the international match calendar continues, FIFA’s silence on the matter of unpaid player wages may further damage its reputation among players and fans alike. For now, the affected players are left waiting, hoping that FIFA will fulfill its obligations and provide the support they were promised.
