A joint statement signed by UEFA, the European Club Association and a number of prominent national football associations has expressed that a proposed biennial World Cup would have a “profoundly detrimental” effect on women’s football.
The women’s World Cup is currently held every four years, with the next edition set to be staged in Australia and New Zealand.
In the statement posted on UEFA’s official website, it is said that the proposals have not “allowed a careful reflection on what is in the best interests of the future development of women’s football”.
The statement has also asked for FIFA to “engage in a genuine, joint and open forum with all relevant football bodies and stakeholders” to assess the consequences that a biennial World Cup would cause.
It adds that the proposals would, amongst other issues, cause congestion to the women’s International Match calendar, lead to a greater risk of physical injury and mental health impacts for top players, and mean a significant reduction to the “regularity and exposure of women’s national team football throughout the season”.
The statement was signed by both UEFA and the European Club Association, as well as the national Football Associations/Federations of England, Germany, Italy, Sweden, Switzerland, Netherlands, Finland, Romania and Denmark.
Joint statement expresses “reservations” over proposals
Part of the statement reads: “The symbiotic relationship between all parts of world football… requires detailed and considered thought ahead of reaching any conclusive decisions on the future of the Men’s and Women’s International Match Calendar.
“To date this process has yet to have taken place.
“To be clear, this is not in any way about Europe defending its position, nor a question of national team versus club football.
“Our reservations centre on our desire for a balanced and inclusive global development that gives women and girls the best conditions to play the most beloved game at all levels and in every society.
“No-one has more insight and understanding of this complexity than those who nurture the game on a daily basis – clubs, leagues, players and coaches – in addition to the governing bodies at confederation, national and regional levels.”
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