Fifa Club World Cup criticised by player union Fifpro

Sergio Marchi, president of Fifpro, the global players' union, has issued a scathing statement labeling FIFA's promotion of its Club World Cup as "nothing more than a fiction." He criticized FIFA president Gianni Infantino directly, comparing him to the Roman emperor Nero and accusing the governing body of prioritizing revenue over player welfare.

Marchi specifically claimed that FIFA "chose to continue increasing its revenue at the expense of the players' bodies and health," highlighting a lack of dialogue and respect for players. This criticism follows revelations that Fifpro was excluded from a key meeting on player welfare, hosted by Infantino on the eve of the Club World Cup final.

The tensions stem from Fifpro's legal complaint filed against FIFA last year, which argued that the expanded Club World Cup schedule abused European competition law by adding excessive fixture pressure. FIFA has denied these allegations, with Infantino countering by calling the tournament "the most successful club competition in the world" and declaring the start of a "golden era of global club football."

Marchi elaborated that while the event generated fan enthusiasm and showcased top players, it "hides a dangerous disconnect" from the realities faced by most footballers, such as inequality, precariousness, and inadequate protection. He likened FIFA's approach to Nero's "bread and circuses," suggesting it was superficial entertainment masking deeper issues.

FIFA has defended itself by stating that all tournament revenues will be redistributed to clubs and noting support from some players and managers for the revamped format. The event also drew attention for the attendance of US President Donald Trump, who watched the final alongside Infantino.