Players, FIFA Reach Consensus on Mandatory Rest Periods
NEW YORK, 13th July 2025 — In a significant development for player welfare, FIFA and representatives of players’ unions have reached a broad consensus on the need for a mandated 72-hour rest period between matches and a minimum 21-day holiday at the end of each season.
The agreement was achieved during discussions held on the eve of the high-profile Club World Cup final between PSG and Chelsea in New York. The tournament, scheduled during the European offseason, has attracted criticism from unions, with growing concern regarding injuries and burnout due to the congested calendar. The call for reforms has gained momentum amid increased focus on player safety and the physical demands of modern football.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino, alongside officials from global football’s governing body, met with union representatives to address these concerns. FIFA characterized the talks as “progressive,” highlighting that players’ health is a “top priority.”
According to FIFA: “There is a consensus that there must be at least 72 hours of rest between matches, and that players should have a rest period / holiday of at least 21 days at the end of each season. This period should be managed individually by each club and the respective players also depending on their match calendars and taking into account applicable collective agreements.”
If the 72-hour window is enforced strictly, it could lead to significant adjustments in current game schedules and broadcast agreements. For instance, European clubs participating in the Europa League on Thursday evenings often play their domestic matches on Sunday; a mandatory 72-hour gap could push these matches to Monday, creating a potential ripple effect on league routines and television planning. FIFA has yet to clarify how such measures would be implemented.
The governing body also emphasized the importance of at least one rest day per week and noted that travel demands and climate considerations will shape future competition planning.
This new spirit of collaboration signals a shift in how football’s leading organizations address the long-standing issue of player welfare, aiming to balance commercial interests with the health and safety of athletes.
Team V.4-EM-UAE
