**FIFA Open to Talks on Football Calendar Amid Threat of Legal Action**

The European Leagues and Fifpro, the global players’ union, have threatened to sue FIFA over the international match calendar, accusing the world governing body of “abuse of dominance.” The Premier League and the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) are leading the charge against FIFA, which has been accused of damaging player welfare with a schedule that is now “beyond saturation.”

The complaint alleges that FIFA’s conduct has “harmed the economic interests of national leagues and the welfare of players.” The European Leagues and Fifpro claim that FIFA’s role as a regulator and competition organizer is a conflict of interest, citing the introduction of a 32-team Club World Cup without consulting teams and organizations.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino pictured this week at the Olympic Games in Paris, France.

In response, FIFA has reiterated its invitation to meet and discuss the calendar with the World Leagues Association and Fifpro. A FIFA spokesperson stated, “FIFA believes there is a more productive way forward for football than the threat of legal action, and the offer to engage in dialogue remains on the table.”

FIFA plans to expand the Club World Cup from seven teams to 32 teams, starting next year.

FIFA claims to serve and balance the overall interests of world football, including the protection of players, and strives to do what is best for the game around the world. The world governing body has expressed its willingness to engage in dialogue to resolve the issue, rather than resorting to legal action.

**Share or comment on this article:** FIFA open to holding talks on the football calendar after threat of legal action led by Premier League and PFA.