GENEVA: The International Federation of Football Association (FIFA) announced yesterday "a big statement" to further protect female players and coaches, which was unanimously endorsed by the FIFA Council.
The world football governing body implemented changes to the Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players (RSTP) to extend the rights and protections to adoptive parents and non-biological mothers, which will take effect on June 1, 2024, reported Xinhua.
"(The changes) will also recognise the physical, psychological, and social dimensions in the event of an inability to provide employment services due to severe menstruation, or medical complications relating to pregnancy, and member associations will be encouraged to allow female players to have contact with their families while on international duty," FIFA claimed in a statement.
"FIFA is committed to implementing a dynamic regulatory framework that is sound and suitable for the increasing needs of female players and coaches," said FIFA Chief Legal & Compliance Officer Emilio Garcia Silvero.
"In order for the game to further flourish, it's absolutely key that we have a holistic approach towards player well-being, including the legal aspects." — BERNAMA-XINHUA