In a significant move to enhance the welfare of women in football, FIFA has announced amendments to the Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players (RSTP), effective from 1 June 2024. These changes come after extensive consultations with key stakeholders and follow previous landmark reforms aimed at safeguarding female players’ well-being.
“One of our key objectives in women’s football is to see more women around the world being able to make a living playing the sport that they love and, in order to do that, we need to make sure that they are protected in doing that. And for women, especially those who are wanting to be mothers or to start a family, to adopt children, it’s important that they are able to do that without having to give up – or have a negative impact on – their footballing career,” stated Sarai Bareman, FIFA’s Chief Women’s Football Officer.
Approved by the FIFA Council in May 2024, the new regulations extend rights and protections to adoptive parents and non-biological mothers, ensuring a broader support system for female players.
Fatmire Alushi, a 2007 FIFA Women’s World Cup winner and mother of four, praised the initiative: “I think it’s great! I, myself, am a mother to four children, and back when I got pregnant, I have to say that PSG looked after me really well, they still paid me a hundred percent of my income. Unfortunately, some other players did not experience this, so I appreciate very much FIFA getting involved to protect pregnant women so that they can have a good feeling.”
The revised regulations also acknowledge the physical, psychological, and social challenges faced by female players, including severe menstruation and medical complications related to pregnancy. Additionally, member associations are encouraged to facilitate family contact for female players while on international duty, recognising the unique biological needs of women.
These comprehensive measures mark a significant step forward in promoting equality and supporting women in football, ensuring they can pursue their careers without compromising on family life.
