The 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup was a landmark moment for women’s soccer, with record-breaking viewership and a stunning display of skill from the world’s best players. However, a new report from FIFPRO, the global players’ union, has highlighted the inequality that still exists in the sport.
The report, which was published in December 2019, found that the majority of countries participating in the Women’s World Cup qualifying process did not provide equal opportunities for female players. In particular, the report highlighted the lack of investment in women’s soccer in many countries, as well as the unequal pay and working conditions for female players.
The report also found that many countries do not provide adequate support for female players in terms of coaching, medical care, and access to facilities. This lack of investment has led to a lack of development opportunities for female players, which has resulted in a lack of competitive matches and a lack of exposure for female players.
The report also highlighted the fact that many countries have failed to implement anti-discrimination policies or to provide equal opportunities for female players. This has resulted in a lack of diversity in the sport, with many countries failing to provide adequate representation for minority groups.
FIFPRO is calling on FIFA to take action to address the inequality in women’s soccer. The organization is urging FIFA to implement measures such as equal pay for female players, improved access to facilities, and increased investment in women’s soccer. FIFPRO is also calling on FIFA to ensure that all countries are providing equal opportunities for female players and implementing anti-discrimination policies.
The FIFPRO report is an important reminder that despite the success of the 2019 Women’s World Cup, there is still much work to be done to ensure equality in women’s soccer. It is essential that FIFA takes action to address the inequality highlighted by FIFPRO and ensure that all countries are providing equal opportunities for female players. Only then can we ensure that the success of the 2019 Women’s World Cup is replicated in future tournaments.
