A collective action has been launched in the Netherlands against FIFA and several European federations, including the French Football Federation. The Dutch Foundation Justice for Players
Request compensation for professional players who would have lost money because of transfer rules deemed unfair by European justice. This action followed an important decision made at the end of 2024 by the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU), called “Diarra judgment”.
In October 2024, the CJEU knew Lassana Diarra right, former player of the French team. The Court estimated that certain FIFA rules on transfers between clubs cause European law and prevented the free movement of players. Lassana Diarra challenged financial penalties imposed when she left the Lokomotiv Moscow ten years ago, who had notably prevented her transfer to Sporting Charleroi.
According to Justice for Playersmore than 100,000 players since 2002 have undergone these illegal rules. They would have lost an average of 8 % of their income throughout their careers. Lucia Melcherts, president of the Foundation, said: “We file this complaint to obtain justice for footballers. »» Lawyer Dolf Segaar, a member of the Foundation, adds thatThe amount claimed is several billion. If one of the officials does not pay, the others will have to do so. »»
A reform required
The main union of players in Europe, FifPro Europe, reacted quickly. He considers this foundation as a concrete response to the Diarra judgment. In a press release, FifPro said:
“We support just compensation for players whose rights have been flouted. We also want a deep reform of the rules of international football. »» The union takes the time to study this collective action.
In addition to the FFF, the German, Belgian, Danish and Dutch federations are also targeted. This file promises to make great noise, especially if FifPro fully engages in the procedure.
