The upcoming Women's World Cup in New Zealand has shed light on the unfair disparities faced by players during the qualification phase of the tournament. Despite featuring 32 teams, many players had to endure subpar playing conditions on poor-quality pitches and lacked proper medical checks, as revealed by the world players' union.
FIFPRO, the international players' union, conducted extensive research on the qualification phase of the 2023 Women's World Cup. Hundreds of surveys were collected from national team players representing all six football confederations, including major tournaments like the Women's Asian Cup, African Cup of Nations, CONCACAF Women's Championship, Copa America Feminina, Women's Nations Cup, and the Women's European Championship.
The report brought attention to the glaring disparities within women's football globally. One survey revealed that 29% of players had not been paid for their participation in qualification games. For those who did receive payment, it was often based on their match performances.
FIFPRO suggested that FIFA must improve the conditions for all players during qualification matches for future World Cups.
The report also emphasized the need for confederations to adopt standardized qualifying standards and structures for the Women's World Cup. This would ensure a consistent and regulated process, fostering more opportunities and encouraging women to play the sport. Currently, only 40% of players considered themselves professional athletes.
Furthermore, the lack of significant safeguards for athletes was highlighted. The survey indicated that 54% of players across all FIFA confederations did not receive a pre-tournament medical examination. Additionally, 70% did not undergo heart monitoring before the qualification phase, and 39% lacked access to mental health support.
While FIFA has increased the prize money for the 2023 Women's World Cup to £86.1 million and pledged a minimum earning of £23,508 for each participating player, the survey results indicated that 93% of the 362 players felt they were underpaid during the qualification process. Winning teams would receive higher compensation, with each player earning £211,577.
FIFPRO's general secretary, Jonas Baer-Hoffmann, expressed the organization's readiness to collaborate with FIFA and the confederations to improve conditions for World Cup qualification and address the existing inequities and fragmentation. Efforts are required to ensure fair treatment, better support, and equal opportunities for all women participating in the beautiful game.
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