FIFA, the international governing body of soccer, has announced new protocols aimed at enhancing the well-being of players and coaches who are pregnant or have recently become parents. These measures are designed to provide support and flexibility to individuals balancing their professional careers with parenthood.
Under the new FIFA protocols, both players and coaches are entitled to a minimum of 14 weeks of paid maternity leave. Additionally, individuals who adopt a child younger than 2 years old will receive a minimum of eight weeks of paid leave. Non-biological parents of newborns are also eligible for a minimum of eight weeks of paid leave.
While maternity leave for players was first introduced in 2020, the updated rules now extend these benefits to coaches, non-biological parents, and adoptive mothers. The protocols officially come into effect this Saturday following approval by the FIFA Council last month.
The regulations also grant clubs more flexibility to sign players outside of the transfer window when individuals are on maternity or parental leave or are returning from such leave. Furthermore, players are now permitted to take paid time off from matches or training due to menstrual health reasons.
FIFA is actively encouraging its member associations to create family-friendly environments for players with children. This initiative aims to support players, both mentally and emotionally, by allowing them to have their children with them during extended periods away from home, such as during tournaments like the FIFA Women's World Cup.
Sarai Bareman, FIFA’s chief women’s soccer officer, emphasized the importance of these new measures in providing necessary support to players and parents within the sport. By normalizing the experiences of women in soccer and promoting inclusivity, FIFA is taking significant steps towards creating a more supportive and accommodating environment for all individuals involved in the sport.
These developments mark a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to prioritize the well-being and work-life balance of players and coaches in the world of soccer.
