FIFA is preparing to significantly update its global regulations, further expanding protections for female footballers and coaches worldwide, according to the organization’s legal director.
The new rules, dubbed “version 3.0,” aim to build on measures introduced since 2018 that have gradually reshaped the sport’s foundational player status and transfer regulations.
Emilio García Silvero, FIFA’s director of legal services, highlighted this ongoing “transformation of the system” at the I International Women’s Football Congress.
The upcoming changes will strengthen an existing framework that includes provisions for parental leave, adoption, and menstrual health, extending these benefits to coaches as well.
Under the current 2024 updates, absence due to menstrual health issues, if certified by a medical professional, will not impact a player’s salary.
The original Player Status and Transfer Regulations, established in 2001, were initially designed exclusively for male players.
Adaptations to include basic guarantees for female players began during the 2018/2019 season.
Specific measures for maternity leave registration periods and contractual protection during pregnancy were first introduced in 2021.
García Silvero also advocated for mandatory family reconciliation measures at major tournaments.
He referenced a notable case where Olympique Lyonnais was compelled to financially compensate Icelandic player Sara Bjork Gunnarsdottir for unpaid wages during her pregnancy, underscoring the necessity of robust protections.
FIFA’s ultimate goal with “version 3.0” is to reinforce athlete protection across its 211 member countries.