FIFA hopes the rolling out of its semi-automated offside technology being trialled at the Club World Cup will not only speed up decision-making but offer increased clarity for football supporters.

The optical tracking system was first tested at last year's Arab Cup in Qatar, and the ultimate goal is for it to be fully in use for the World Cup in the Gulf state later this year.

Pierluigi Collina, chairman of FIFA's referees committee, on Wednesday told reporters VAR had proved "very successful" since its introduction but conceded more consistency is needed.

"It's not yet at the very, very top... the same speed decision-making process. Being fast and being accurate don't work together," Collina said at the Club World Cup in Abu Dhabi.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-cristiano-ronaldos-girlfriend-gifts-him-luxurious-car-for-whopping-price-on-37th-birthday-451757">Cristiano Ronaldo's girlfriend gifts him luxurious car for WHOPPING price on 37th birthday</a>

"It's important the video officials get an accurate decision, but we are aware we need to reduce the time, particularly with offside."

"Sometimes it takes a bit longer to assess an offside decision, particularly in very tight incidents," he said.

"The goal is already celebrated, everybody is waiting and then there is a goal disallowed, or the other way round... and then after quite a long time there is the final decision."

The data-driven, limb-tracking technology relies on a series of dedicated cameras and broadcast cameras around the stadium to give the exact position of players on the pitch, offering referees precise information within seconds.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unbelievable-man-uniteds-cristiano-ronaldo-becomes-first-ever-to-surpass-400m-followers-on-instagram-451207">UNBELIEVABLE! Man United's Cristiano Ronaldo becomes first-ever to surpass 400m followers on Instagram</a>

To provide improved accuracy, the system currently generates 18 data points per player -- tracking the various parts of the body to create a skeletal, three-dimensional model.

The aim is to increase that to 29 for the World Cup to provide further precision, according to the head of football technology at FIFA, Sebastian Runge.

Once a final decision is made, the artificial-intelligence driven technology turns the images into a 3D animation that can be displayed on the big screen at grounds.

"By taking that data, we can enter the 3D world and we can create animations, that can explain perfectly whether a player was onside, how much of that player was offside or onside," said Runge.&nbsp;

"We put that in an animation that will be shared with TV and our giant screen operators and we can inform the spectators in a clearer way on offside and onside decisions."

More than just a robot

Despite the ever-growing influence of technology, FIFA insisted the match officials will always make the final call.

A dedicated VAR assistant is responsible for monitoring offside, checking incidents as they happen rather than waiting for a stoppage in play.

The assistant notifies the main VAR official, who makes the decision and then speaks to the referee.

"I know that someone called it 'robot offside'; it's not. The technology is simply a tool used by human beings," said Collina.

"The referees and the assistant referees are still responsible for the decision on the field of play. The technology only gives them valued support to make more accurate and quicker decisions."

Collina used the example of a goal ruled out for offside in Palmeiras' 2-0 semi-final win over Al Ahly on Tuesday as an area where more can be done to keep fans fully informed.

"We were discussing before how to get the attention of the people in the stadium because if you don't know (the animation) is coming... you don't look at the giant screen," he said.

"It's not possible to get this image within the same stoppage of play. It takes roughly 30 seconds, that's why it's shown at the next stoppage of play.

FIFA hopes the rolling out of its semi-automated offside technology being trialled at the Club World Cup will not only speed up decision-making but offer increased clarity for football supporters.

FIFA hopes the rolling out of its semi-automated offside technology being trialled at the Club World Cup will not only speed up decision-making but offer increased clarity for football supporters. The optical tracking system was first tested at last year's Arab Cup in Qatar, and the ultimate goal is for it to be fully in use for the World Cup in the Gulf state later this year. Pierluigi Collina, chairman of FIFA's referees committee, on Wednesday told reporters VAR had proved "very successful" since its introduction but conceded more consistency is needed. "It's not yet at the very, very top... the same speed decision-making process. Being fast and being accurate don't work together," Collina said at the Club World Cup in Abu Dhabi. ALSO READ | Cristiano Ronaldo's girlfriend gifts him luxurious car for WHOPPING price on 37th birthday "It's important the video officials get an accurate decision, but we are aware we need to reduce the time, particularly with offside." "Sometimes it takes a bit longer to assess an offside decision, particularly in very tight incidents," he said. "The goal is already celebrated, everybody is waiting and then there is a goal disallowed, or the other way round... and then after quite a long time there is the final decision." The data-driven, limb-tracking technology relies on a series of dedicated cameras and broadcast cameras around the stadium to give the exact position of players on the pitch, offering referees precise information within seconds. ALSO READ | UNBELIEVABLE! Man United's Cristiano Ronaldo becomes first-ever to surpass 400m followers on Instagram To provide improved accuracy, the system currently generates 18 data points per player -- tracking the various parts of the body to create a skeletal, three-dimensional model. The aim is to increase that to 29 for the World Cup to provide further precision, according to the head of football technology at FIFA, Sebastian Runge. Once a final decision is made, the artificial-intelligence driven technology turns the images into a 3D animation that can be displayed on the big screen at grounds. "By taking that data, we can enter the 3D world and we can create animations, that can explain perfectly whether a player was onside, how much of that player was offside or onside," said Runge. "We put that in an animation that will be shared with TV and our giant screen operators and we can inform the spectators in a clearer way on offside and onside decisions." More than just a robot Despite the ever-growing influence of technology, FIFA insisted the match officials will always make the final call. A dedicated VAR assistant is responsible for monitoring offside, checking incidents as they happen rather than waiting for a stoppage in play. The assistant notifies the main VAR official, who makes the decision and then speaks to the referee. "I know that someone called it 'robot offside'; it's not. The technology is simply a tool used by human beings," said Collina. "The referees and the assistant referees are still responsible for the decision on the field of play. The technology only gives them valued support to make more accurate and quicker decisions." Collina used the example of a goal ruled out for offside in Palmeiras' 2-0 semi-final win over Al Ahly on Tuesday as an area where more can be done to keep fans fully informed. "We were discussing before how to get the attention of the people in the stadium because if you don't know (the animation) is coming... you don't look at the giant screen," he said. "It's not possible to get this image within the same stoppage of play. It takes roughly 30 seconds, that's why it's shown at the next stoppage of play.

FIFA hopes semi-automated offside technology will boost VAR and offer clarity to fans

Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski was crowned the Best Men's Player of the Year for the second time in a row after pipping Lionel Messi to the top honour on Tuesday. Barcelona's Alexia Putellas won the Best Women's Player of the Year award for her exploits with club and country. Cristiano Ronaldo was handed over a special award for being the top men's international goalscorer of all time.

From Lewandowski to Ronaldo: Who won what at The Best FIFA Football Awards 2021

The sixth edition of the Best FIFA Football Awards is all set to be staged on Monday (January 17). The best players in the world across the men's and women's categories will be honoured at the mega event at the FIFA headquarters in Zurich. The award&nbsp;ceremony is conducted annually to recognise the contributions of the best players across all FIFA-related competitions.

The award ceremony is organised by the apex football governing body -&nbsp;(Fédération Internationale de Football Association) FIFA. While the Ballon d'Or award ceremony was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic last year, The Best FIFA Football Awards ceremony was conducted virtually.

Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski brought an end to Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo's dominance to win the best male player of the year award last time around. The Polis star is once again in contention to win the major honour and has been nominated alongside Argentine legend Messi and Liverpool forward Mohammed Salah.

Messi won a record seventh Ballon D'Or last year after a brilliant season with his former club FC Barcelona and his national team Argentina. The legendary forward led Argentina to a memorable Copa America triumph capping off a stunning season on the personal front and is one of the favourites to become the best male player of the year award 2021.

While Salah capped off another sublime season with Liverpool, Lewandowski too continued his prolific run in 2021. He scored the most goals by any player in the calendar year finding the net 54 times in 58 matches across all competitions for club and country.

Here is a look at all the nominees for the Best FIFA Awards 2021:

Best Men's Player of the Year 2021 nominees

Robert Lewandowski (FC Bayern Munich,&nbsp;Poland) 
Lionel Messi&nbsp;(Paris Saint Germain, Argentina) 
Mohamed Salah&nbsp;(Liverpool FC,&nbsp;Egypt)

The Best Women's Player of the Year 2021 nominees

Jennifer Hermoso (FC Barcelona, Spain) 
Sam Kerr (Chelsea, Australia) 
Alexia Putellas&nbsp;(FC Barcelona, Spain)

The Best FIFA Men's Coach 2021 nominees:

Roberto Mancini&nbsp; (Italy) 
Pep Guardiola (Manchester City) 
Thomas Tuchel&nbsp;(Chelsea)

Where and how to watch The Best FIFA 2021 ceremony?

Football fans in Indian can watch the live streaming of The Best FIFA Awards 2021 on the Voot Select app. The social media handles of FIFA (YouTube, Facebook and Twitter) will also have the award ceremony live for viewers across the globe.

The sixth edition of the Best FIFA Football Awards is all set to be staged on Monday (January 17). The best players in the world across the men's and women's categories will be honoured at the mega event at the FIFA headquarters in Zurich.

The sixth edition of the Best FIFA Football Awards is all set to be staged on Monday (January 17). The best players in the world across the men's and women's categories will be honoured at the mega event at the FIFA headquarters in Zurich. The award ceremony is conducted annually to recognise the contributions of the best players across all FIFA-related competitions. The award ceremony is organised by the apex football governing body - (Fédération Internationale de Football Association) FIFA. While the Ballon d'Or award ceremony was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic last year, The Best FIFA Football Awards ceremony was conducted virtually. Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski brought an end to Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo's dominance to win the best male player of the year award last time around. The Polis star is once again in contention to win the major honour and has been nominated alongside Argentine legend Messi and Liverpool forward Mohammed Salah. Messi won a record seventh Ballon D'Or last year after a brilliant season with his former club FC Barcelona and his national team Argentina. The legendary forward led Argentina to a memorable Copa America triumph capping off a stunning season on the personal front and is one of the favourites to become the best male player of the year award 2021. While Salah capped off another sublime season with Liverpool, Lewandowski too continued his prolific run in 2021. He scored the most goals by any player in the calendar year finding the net 54 times in 58 matches across all competitions for club and country. Here is a look at all the nominees for the Best FIFA Awards 2021: Best Men's Player of the Year 2021 nominees Robert Lewandowski (FC Bayern Munich, Poland) Lionel Messi (Paris Saint Germain, Argentina) Mohamed Salah (Liverpool FC, Egypt) The Best Women's Player of the Year 2021 nominees Jennifer Hermoso (FC Barcelona, Spain) Sam Kerr (Chelsea, Australia) Alexia Putellas (FC Barcelona, Spain) The Best FIFA Men's Coach 2021 nominees: Roberto Mancini (Italy) Pep Guardiola (Manchester City) Thomas Tuchel (Chelsea) Where and how to watch The Best FIFA 2021 ceremony? Football fans in Indian can watch the live streaming of The Best FIFA Awards 2021 on the Voot Select app. The social media handles of FIFA (YouTube, Facebook and Twitter) will also have the award ceremony live for viewers across the globe.

The Best FIFA Football Awards 2021: Full list of nominees, live streaming details and all you need to know

The FIFA world cup is slated to be held in hutter in the month of November later this year, and all eyes are on a specially designed stadium that can be dismantled and transported to wherever it is needed.

FIFA World Cup: World's first transportable football stadium built using shipping containers

As many as 18 Indian referees have been selected in the FIFA Refereeing International list for 2022, the All India Football Federation announced on Thursday.

The extensive list includes officials who are qualified to be referees and assistant referees, the All India Football Federation said in a statement on their website.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/isl-2021-22-kerala-blasters-fc-thrash-chennaiyin-fc-3-0-climb-to-third-spot-in-points-table-439121">ISL 2021-22: Kerala Blasters FC thrash Chennaiyin FC 3-0, climb to third spot in points table</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
18 Indian Referees Selected on FIFA'S International List 2022 
 
Read 👉🏼 <a href="https://t.co/GcL6b6Wse4">https://t.co/GcL6b6Wse4</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianFootball?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianFootball</a> ⚽️ <a href="https://t.co/JGzfFJVNkc">pic.twitter.com/JGzfFJVNkc</a>
— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianFootball/status/1473946315012800512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Members of the list are eligible to officiate at the international level and are also entitled to wear a FIFA badge on their uniform for the year they are enlisted.

The selection for the annual list is made through the nominations sent by FIFA member countries and the officials are required to clear a fitness test.

Out of the selected 18 Indians, four are women (two referees and two assistant referees), and 14 men (six referees and eight assistant referees).

List of of selected Indian officials:

Men referees: Tejas Nagvenkar, Srikrishna Coimbatore Ramaswamy, Rowan Arumughan, Crystal John, Pranjal Banerjee, Venkatesh Ramachandran.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/league-cup-liverpool-beat-leicester-in-penalty-shootout-chelsea-and-spurs-qualify-for-semis-439220">League Cup: Liverpool beat Leicester in penalty shootout, Chelsea and Spurs qualify for semis</a>

Men assistant referees: Sumanta Dutta, Antony Abraham, Tony Joseph Louis, Vairamuthu Parasuraman, Samar Pal, Kennedy Sapam, Arun Sasidharan Pillai, Asit Kumar Sarkar.

Women referees: Ranjita Devi Tekcham, Kanika Barman.

Women assistant referees: Uvena Fernandes, Riiohlang Dhar.&nbsp;

As many as 18 Indian referees have been selected in the FIFA Refereeing International list for 2022, the All India Football Federation announced on Thursday. The extensive list includes officials who are qualified to be referees and assistant referees, the All India Football Federation said in a statement on their website.

As many as 18 Indian referees have been selected in the FIFA Refereeing International list for 2022, the All India Football Federation announced on Thursday. The extensive list includes officials who are qualified to be referees and assistant referees, the All India Football Federation said in a statement on their website. ALSO READ: ISL 2021-22: Kerala Blasters FC thrash Chennaiyin FC 3-0, climb to third spot in points table 18 Indian Referees Selected on FIFA'S International List 2022 Read 👉🏼 https://t.co/GcL6b6Wse4#IndianFootball ⚽️ pic.twitter.com/JGzfFJVNkc — Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) December 23, 2021 × Members of the list are eligible to officiate at the international level and are also entitled to wear a FIFA badge on their uniform for the year they are enlisted. The selection for the annual list is made through the nominations sent by FIFA member countries and the officials are required to clear a fitness test. Out of the selected 18 Indians, four are women (two referees and two assistant referees), and 14 men (six referees and eight assistant referees). List of of selected Indian officials: Men referees: Tejas Nagvenkar, Srikrishna Coimbatore Ramaswamy, Rowan Arumughan, Crystal John, Pranjal Banerjee, Venkatesh Ramachandran. ALSO READ: League Cup: Liverpool beat Leicester in penalty shootout, Chelsea and Spurs qualify for semis Men assistant referees: Sumanta Dutta, Antony Abraham, Tony Joseph Louis, Vairamuthu Parasuraman, Samar Pal, Kennedy Sapam, Arun Sasidharan Pillai, Asit Kumar Sarkar. Women referees: Ranjita Devi Tekcham, Kanika Barman. Women assistant referees: Uvena Fernandes, Riiohlang Dhar.

FIFA names 18 Indian referees, including four women, to its International list for 2022

FIFA president Gianni Infantino accused those opposed to altering the frequency of the World Cup to every two years of being scared of change and wanting to keep their elevated status in the game as Africa on Friday backed the plans.

In a veiled dig at confederations in Europe and South America, who have come out against the plan to change the current four-year-cycle, Infantino said they did not want things to change because they were at the top of the sport.

He was speaking at the Confederation of African Football congress in Cairo, where African countries on Friday unanimously voted for a resolution backing his plan to change the hosting of the World Cup to every two years.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/father-of-daughters-mara-and-dona-names-newborn-son-diego-on-football-legends-first-death-anniversary-432128">Father of daughters Mara and Dona, names newborn son Diego on football legend's first death anniversary</a>

"Those who are against it are those at the top. It happens in every sector of life when there are reforms and changes, those who are at the top don't want anything to change because they are at the top,"&nbsp;said Infantino.

"And they are afraid maybe that if something changes, their leadership position is at risk."

"We understand that and we compliment and applaud them for having been so successful in reaching the top. This is fantastic, and they are an example for everyone."

"But at the same time, we cannot close the door, we need to keep the door open, we need to give hope and opportunities,” he added.

"Infantino insisted increasing the frequency of the hosting of FIFA’s flagship event would offer more opportunities to countries outside of the top tier of the world game."

IN PICS:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/one-year-without-diego-maradona-world-remembers-one-of-footballs-greatest-432137">One year without Diego Maradona: World remembers one of football's greatest</a>

"We need to offer more chances for world football, for African football to shine at the world stage."

Infantino said he would continue to consult opinion on his proposal but gave no timeline for its possible implementation.

UEFA has said a new schedule would have an adverse impact on the balance between local, domestic, continental, and international competitions.

CONMEBOL, the South American body, said the project "turns its back on almost 100 years of world football tradition". 
The World Cup will increase its number of finalists from 32 to 48 at the 2026 edition, which is being co-hosted by Canada, Mexico and the U.S.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino accused those opposed to altering the frequency of the World Cup to every two years of being scared of change and wanting to keep their elevated status in the game as Africa on Friday backed the plans.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino accused those opposed to altering the frequency of the World Cup to every two years of being scared of change and wanting to keep their elevated status in the game as Africa on Friday backed the plans. In a veiled dig at confederations in Europe and South America, who have come out against the plan to change the current four-year-cycle, Infantino said they did not want things to change because they were at the top of the sport. He was speaking at the Confederation of African Football congress in Cairo, where African countries on Friday unanimously voted for a resolution backing his plan to change the hosting of the World Cup to every two years. ALSO READ: Father of daughters Mara and Dona, names newborn son Diego on football legend's first death anniversary "Those who are against it are those at the top. It happens in every sector of life when there are reforms and changes, those who are at the top don't want anything to change because they are at the top," said Infantino. "And they are afraid maybe that if something changes, their leadership position is at risk." "We understand that and we compliment and applaud them for having been so successful in reaching the top. This is fantastic, and they are an example for everyone." "But at the same time, we cannot close the door, we need to keep the door open, we need to give hope and opportunities,” he added. "Infantino insisted increasing the frequency of the hosting of FIFA’s flagship event would offer more opportunities to countries outside of the top tier of the world game." IN PICS: One year without Diego Maradona: World remembers one of football's greatest "We need to offer more chances for world football, for African football to shine at the world stage." Infantino said he would continue to consult opinion on his proposal but gave no timeline for its possible implementation. UEFA has said a new schedule would have an adverse impact on the balance between local, domestic, continental, and international competitions. CONMEBOL, the South American body, said the project "turns its back on almost 100 years of world football tradition". The World Cup will increase its number of finalists from 32 to 48 at the 2026 edition, which is being co-hosted by Canada, Mexico and the U.S.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino says those opposed to World Cup change scared

The evacuation of a second group of 57 refugees from Afghanistan linked to women's soccer and basketball, comprising mainly women and children, has been completed after negotiations, world soccer`s governing body FIFA said on Friday.

There have been numerous evacuations since the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan's capital Kabul on Aug. 15 and announced a new government last month after U.S.-led foreign forces withdrew and the Western-backed government collapsed.

Last week FIFA said it had worked with the Qatari government to evacuate almost 100 football players and their families from Afghanistan. The 57 individuals in the second group were also flown to Qatar on a charter flight.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/female-soccer-players-evacuated-from-afghanistan-to-qatar-420938">Female soccer players evacuated from Afghanistan to Qatar</a>

Earlier this month, FIFA had also helped cycling body UCI in the evacuation of 165 refugees via Albania.

"We would like to express our sincere thanks to both the Amir of Qatar... and the Prime Minister of Albania... for helping us with this humanitarian mission and for all their assistance in safely relocating these members of the football community in such challenging circumstances," FIFA president Gianni Infantino said.

"I am also calling on all of our friends in governments and in the football community across the world to help us in obtaining residence permits and visas for the evacuees so that they can start a new life in safe and secure circumstances."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-to-expand-gaming-and-e-sports-portfolio-421234">FIFA to expand gaming and e-sports portfolio</a>

Australia evacuated more than 50 female Afghan athletes and their dependents after lobbying by prominent figures from the sporting world while several players from Afghanistan`s national female youth soccer squad were granted asylum in Portugal.

The evacuation of a second group of 57 refugees from Afghanistan linked to women's soccer and basketball, comprising mainly women and children, has been completed after negotiations, world soccer`s governing body FIFA said on Friday.

The evacuation of a second group of 57 refugees from Afghanistan linked to women's soccer and basketball, comprising mainly women and children, has been completed after negotiations, world soccer`s governing body FIFA said on Friday. There have been numerous evacuations since the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan's capital Kabul on Aug. 15 and announced a new government last month after U.S.-led foreign forces withdrew and the Western-backed government collapsed. Last week FIFA said it had worked with the Qatari government to evacuate almost 100 football players and their families from Afghanistan. The 57 individuals in the second group were also flown to Qatar on a charter flight. ALSO READ: Female soccer players evacuated from Afghanistan to Qatar Earlier this month, FIFA had also helped cycling body UCI in the evacuation of 165 refugees via Albania. "We would like to express our sincere thanks to both the Amir of Qatar... and the Prime Minister of Albania... for helping us with this humanitarian mission and for all their assistance in safely relocating these members of the football community in such challenging circumstances," FIFA president Gianni Infantino said. "I am also calling on all of our friends in governments and in the football community across the world to help us in obtaining residence permits and visas for the evacuees so that they can start a new life in safe and secure circumstances." ALSO READ: FIFA to expand gaming and e-sports portfolio Australia evacuated more than 50 female Afghan athletes and their dependents after lobbying by prominent figures from the sporting world while several players from Afghanistan`s national female youth soccer squad were granted asylum in Portugal.

After rescuing 100 members, FIFA claims 57 more refugees evacuated from Afghanistan

FIFA has invited the coaches of all 211 men's national teams to a meeting about their plans for a biennial World Cup and new international match calendar, the organisation said on Monday.

Video conferences for the coaches will be held on Tuesday and Thursday and will be led by former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, FIFA`s head of Global Football Development.

UEFA have vowed to oppose FIFA`s plans until they are dropped by FIFA and sources told Reuters on Friday that European bodies will refuse to participate in any new tournament and calendar if the plans are pushed through at a planned vote in December.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-west-ham-united-snatch-battling-win-at-everton-421605">Premier League: West Ham United snatch battling win at Everton</a>

"As a coach of the men`s national teams, their input is essential," Wenger, who has been central to the development of FIFA`s plans, said in a statement.

"Opportunities for us to come together are few and far between, but we must embrace these occasions as such dialogue helps us all to protect the unique place that football has in the world and to make it truly global."

FIFA has argued that a biennial World Cup would lead to increased chances for countries to play in the tournament and that a streamlined qualification process, with fewer international breaks, would reduce travel for players.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bundesliga-bayern-munich-smash-five-past-leverkusen-to-reclaim-top-spot-421611">Bundesliga: Bayern Munich smash five past Leverkusen to reclaim top spot</a>

UEFA says that a more frequently held World Cup would dilute the competition`s prestige and that holding major tournaments every year would increase the load on players and crowd the schedule.

FIFA is holding a separate consultation about the future of women`s football, headed by former U.S. women`s national team coach Jill Ellis.

FIFA has invited the coaches of all 211 men's national teams to a meeting about their plans for a biennial World Cup and new international match calendar, the organisation said on Monday.

FIFA has invited the coaches of all 211 men's national teams to a meeting about their plans for a biennial World Cup and new international match calendar, the organisation said on Monday. Video conferences for the coaches will be held on Tuesday and Thursday and will be led by former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, FIFA`s head of Global Football Development. UEFA have vowed to oppose FIFA`s plans until they are dropped by FIFA and sources told Reuters on Friday that European bodies will refuse to participate in any new tournament and calendar if the plans are pushed through at a planned vote in December. ALSO READ: Premier League: West Ham United snatch battling win at Everton "As a coach of the men`s national teams, their input is essential," Wenger, who has been central to the development of FIFA`s plans, said in a statement. "Opportunities for us to come together are few and far between, but we must embrace these occasions as such dialogue helps us all to protect the unique place that football has in the world and to make it truly global." FIFA has argued that a biennial World Cup would lead to increased chances for countries to play in the tournament and that a streamlined qualification process, with fewer international breaks, would reduce travel for players. ALSO READ: Bundesliga: Bayern Munich smash five past Leverkusen to reclaim top spot UEFA says that a more frequently held World Cup would dilute the competition`s prestige and that holding major tournaments every year would increase the load on players and crowd the schedule. FIFA is holding a separate consultation about the future of women`s football, headed by former U.S. women`s national team coach Jill Ellis.

Arsene Wenger to meet with national coaches over World Cup plan

The International Olympic Committee said it has concerns about FIFA's push for soccer World Cups every two years. Though IOC President Thomas Bach said last month we will not interfere in this discussion,&nbsp;his organization stepped in on Saturday after meeting in Athens to detail objections it shared with soccer stakeholders.

Clashes in the schedule with other sports, the men's World Cup overshadowing women's editions of the tournament, and a further massive strain&nbsp;on athlete welfare were all cited in an IOC statement after an executive board meeting. 
The IOC did not refer to potential future World Cup-Olympics clashes potentially as soon as 2028 when the Summer Games are hosted by Los Angeles in its statement.

The IOC did criticize FIFA's tactics in promoting the biennial World Cup project by noting a wider consultation across soccer has obviously not taken place.

FIFA revealed its detailed plan last month, after meeting with retired players, to redraft the calendar of international soccer competitions with biennial World Cups for men and women at the heart.

The proposal strongly backed by FIFA president Gianni Infantino was announced before formally consulting member federations in the World Cup strongholds of Europe and South America.

Those regions' governing bodies, UEFA and CONMEBOL, have warned of a World Cup boycott if FIFA pushes ahead with a plan that would undermine their continental championships, which are organized on the same four-year cycle as the IOC's Summer Games. All are next due in 2024.

The IOC cited&nbsp;tennis, cycling, golf, gymnastics, swimming, athletics, Formula One and many others&nbsp;as sports which would be affected by more World Cups. This would undermine the diversity and development of sports other than football,&nbsp;the Olympic body said.

FIFA, whose next scheduled World Cups are in 2022 and 2026, has not specified wanting to stay on even-numbered years for a biennial men's World Cup. A switch to odd-numbered years, possibly starting in 2029, could be proposed.

At an Olympic briefing after an executive board meeting, spokesman Mark Adams was asked if Infantino, who is an IOC member, had talked with Bach about the biennial World Cup plan before going public with it.

Adams said he could not give details though the IOC kept in touch with sports governing bodies. 
When asked last month about FIFA's plans at an IOC news conference, Bach suggested contributions of the continental associations&nbsp;such as UEFA and CONMEBOL&nbsp;were making the issues clear.

FIFA has not set a formal date for a decision on its World Cup proposal, though has suggested a meeting of its 211 national members could be held in December.&nbsp;

The International Olympic Committee said it has concerns about FIFA's push for soccer World Cups every two years. Though IOC President Thomas Bach said last month we will not interfere in this discussion, his organization stepped in on Saturday after meeting in Athens to detail objections it shared with soccer stakeholders.

The International Olympic Committee said it has concerns about FIFA's push for soccer World Cups every two years. Though IOC President Thomas Bach said last month we will not interfere in this discussion, his organization stepped in on Saturday after meeting in Athens to detail objections it shared with soccer stakeholders. Clashes in the schedule with other sports, the men's World Cup overshadowing women's editions of the tournament, and a further massive strain on athlete welfare were all cited in an IOC statement after an executive board meeting. The IOC did not refer to potential future World Cup-Olympics clashes potentially as soon as 2028 when the Summer Games are hosted by Los Angeles in its statement. The IOC did criticize FIFA's tactics in promoting the biennial World Cup project by noting a wider consultation across soccer has obviously not taken place. FIFA revealed its detailed plan last month, after meeting with retired players, to redraft the calendar of international soccer competitions with biennial World Cups for men and women at the heart. The proposal strongly backed by FIFA president Gianni Infantino was announced before formally consulting member federations in the World Cup strongholds of Europe and South America. Those regions' governing bodies, UEFA and CONMEBOL, have warned of a World Cup boycott if FIFA pushes ahead with a plan that would undermine their continental championships, which are organized on the same four-year cycle as the IOC's Summer Games. All are next due in 2024. The IOC cited tennis, cycling, golf, gymnastics, swimming, athletics, Formula One and many others as sports which would be affected by more World Cups. This would undermine the diversity and development of sports other than football, the Olympic body said. FIFA, whose next scheduled World Cups are in 2022 and 2026, has not specified wanting to stay on even-numbered years for a biennial men's World Cup. A switch to odd-numbered years, possibly starting in 2029, could be proposed. At an Olympic briefing after an executive board meeting, spokesman Mark Adams was asked if Infantino, who is an IOC member, had talked with Bach about the biennial World Cup plan before going public with it. Adams said he could not give details though the IOC kept in touch with sports governing bodies. When asked last month about FIFA's plans at an IOC news conference, Bach suggested contributions of the continental associations such as UEFA and CONMEBOL were making the issues clear. FIFA has not set a formal date for a decision on its World Cup proposal, though has suggested a meeting of its 211 national members could be held in December.

IOC voices concern over FIFA's plan to host World Cup every two years

World soccer's governing body FIFA said on Friday that it will widen its gaming and e-sports portfolio to ensure that controlling rights don't lie in the hands of one party.

This comes after a report by The New York Times earlier this week that said videogame publisher Electronic Arts is struggling to renew the contract that would let EA use FIFA's name for its top-selling soccer franchise.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-legend-pele-feeling-better-after-his-tumour-surgery-says-ready-to-play-420977">Football legend Pele feeling better after his tumour surgery says 'Ready to play'</a>

"The future of gaming and eSports for football stakeholders must involve more than one party controlling and exploiting all rights," FIFA said, adding that technology and mobile companies are now actively competing to be associated with FIFA, its platforms, and global tournaments.

"FIFA" game publisher EA said last week that it was reviewing naming rights agreement with FIFA, which is separate from all other official partnerships and licenses EA has in the football arena.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-announces-bidding-process-for-euro-2028-hosts-420218">UEFA announces bidding process for Euro 2028 hosts</a>

EA's current contract expires next year after the Qatar World Cup, with FIFA seeking increased revenue, and EA pushing to expand the FIFA brand into new areas, like NFTs and highlights of real games. 
&nbsp;

World soccer's governing body FIFA said on Friday that it will widen its gaming and e-sports portfolio to ensure that controlling rights don't lie in the hands of one party.

World soccer's governing body FIFA said on Friday that it will widen its gaming and e-sports portfolio to ensure that controlling rights don't lie in the hands of one party. This comes after a report by The New York Times earlier this week that said videogame publisher Electronic Arts is struggling to renew the contract that would let EA use FIFA's name for its top-selling soccer franchise. ALSO READ: Football legend Pele feeling better after his tumour surgery says 'Ready to play' "The future of gaming and eSports for football stakeholders must involve more than one party controlling and exploiting all rights," FIFA said, adding that technology and mobile companies are now actively competing to be associated with FIFA, its platforms, and global tournaments. "FIFA" game publisher EA said last week that it was reviewing naming rights agreement with FIFA, which is separate from all other official partnerships and licenses EA has in the football arena. ALSO READ: UEFA announces bidding process for Euro 2028 hosts EA's current contract expires next year after the Qatar World Cup, with FIFA seeking increased revenue, and EA pushing to expand the FIFA brand into new areas, like NFTs and highlights of real games.

FIFA to expand gaming and e-sports portfolio

Football's world governing body FIFA on Friday said it has evacuated almost 100 members of the "football family", including women players, from Afghanistan after "complex negotiations" and with support from Qatar.

The evacuation, especially of women footballers, was necessitated by Taliban's takeover of the strife-torn country in August this year.

"FIFA can confirm, following complex negotiations, it has, with the support of Qatar, evacuated almost 100 members of the football family from Afghanistan, including female players," stated the world body.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/denmark-seal-world-cup-ticket-with-win-over-austria-420402">Denmark seal World Cup ticket with win over Austria</a>

"FIFA would like to express its sincere thanks to the government of Qatar for its support facilitating extensive discussions and for ensuring the safe passage of these individuals, deemed to have been at the highest risk," it added.

The evacuees were brought to Doha aboard a Qatar Airways charter flight from Kabul. Qatar is due to host the men's World Cup next year.

In September, members of Afghan women's youth football team had fled to Pakistan but several others were stranded during the turmoil triggered by the Taliban takeover.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-likely-to-postpone-afghanistan-test-report-420156">Australia likely to postpone Afghanistan Test: Report</a>

The volatile situation was exacerbated by the suicide attacks outside the Hamid Karzai International airport in Kabul that killed several Afghans desperately trying to flee the country.

"The FIFA leadership has been closely coordinating with the government of Qatar since August on the evacuation of the group, and will continue to work closely on the safe evacuation of further members of the sporting family in the future," the statement from FIFA read, promising more such evacuations from the war-torn nation.&nbsp;

Football's world governing body FIFA on Friday said it has evacuated almost 100 members of the "football family", including women players, from Afghanistan after "complex negotiations" and with support from Qatar.

Football's world governing body FIFA on Friday said it has evacuated almost 100 members of the "football family", including women players, from Afghanistan after "complex negotiations" and with support from Qatar. The evacuation, especially of women footballers, was necessitated by Taliban's takeover of the strife-torn country in August this year. "FIFA can confirm, following complex negotiations, it has, with the support of Qatar, evacuated almost 100 members of the football family from Afghanistan, including female players," stated the world body. ALSO READ: Denmark seal World Cup ticket with win over Austria "FIFA would like to express its sincere thanks to the government of Qatar for its support facilitating extensive discussions and for ensuring the safe passage of these individuals, deemed to have been at the highest risk," it added. The evacuees were brought to Doha aboard a Qatar Airways charter flight from Kabul. Qatar is due to host the men's World Cup next year. In September, members of Afghan women's youth football team had fled to Pakistan but several others were stranded during the turmoil triggered by the Taliban takeover. ALSO READ: Australia likely to postpone Afghanistan Test: Report The volatile situation was exacerbated by the suicide attacks outside the Hamid Karzai International airport in Kabul that killed several Afghans desperately trying to flee the country. "The FIFA leadership has been closely coordinating with the government of Qatar since August on the evacuation of the group, and will continue to work closely on the safe evacuation of further members of the sporting family in the future," the statement from FIFA read, promising more such evacuations from the war-torn nation.

Female soccer players evacuated from Afghanistan to Qatar

Chaotic and violent scenes prevailed inside Wembley Stadium in the United Kingdom during the World Cup qualifying match between England and Hungary when dozens of fans fought with baton-wielding police on Tuesday (October 12).

Chaotic and violent scenes prevailed inside Wembley Stadium in the United Kingdom during the World Cup qualifying match between England and Hungary when dozens of fans fought with baton-wielding police on Tuesday (October 12). Just moments after kick-off, trouble flared as a group of Hungary supporters charged at stewards, who were forced to retreat before police wielding batons arrived. The fighting continued for several minutes before riot police finally restored order in the stands and the stadium concourse. The incident occurred when police moved in to arrest one Hungary fan for a racist comment to a steward. ALSO READ | 'He was very bad': Sergio Aguero opens up on Lionel Messi's reaction over shocking Barcelona exit Image: World Cup - UEFA Qualifiers - Group I - England v Hungary - Wembley Stadium, London, Britain - October 12, 2021 General view as Police clash with Hungary fans during the match. Source: Reuters. Metropolitan Police running away from Hungary supporters at Wembley stadium last night.. pic.twitter.com/CTi5mRINCr — Paul B 🇬🇧 🔴 (@pauldbowen) October 13, 2021 × ALSO READ | 'Like a funeral': Arsene Wenger opens up on Arsenal exit in new documentary The fighting appeared to be instigated by a cluster of Hungary fans. Most of them were dressed in the black t-shirts of the ultras who follow the country - they are known as the Carpathian Brigade. Apart from fighting with the police, Hungary's supporters also booed when England players took the knee before kick-off and held up a banner protesting against the anti-racism gesture. England manager Gareth Southgate said, "I was aware of a disturbance. It sounds like it was not acceptable but I haven't seen the detail." England defender Tyrone Mings said, "Every time we speak on racial abuse the punishments that follow never seem in line with what has happened. I sincerely hope that if that is the case, the punishments fall in line with what happened this time." Image: World Cup - UEFA Qualifiers - Group I - England v Hungary - Wembley Stadium, London, Britain - October 12, 2021 England's Declan Rice and Tyrone Mings take the knee before the match. Source: Reuters. What is Carpathian Brigade? Carpathian Brigade is a group of the country's most hardcore fans and ultras drawn from different clubs around the country and its history goes back to 2009, when a political party met ultras groups from Hungary’s biggest clubs and formed black-shirted Carpathian Brigade in an effort to contain neo-Nazi violence on the terraces. They grew bigger and made efforts to bring all fans together with an improved atmosphere to national team games. Image: World Cup - UEFA Qualifiers - Group I - England v Hungary - Wembley Stadium, London, Britain - October 12, 2021 Hungary fans celebrate with flares after Roland Sallai scores their first. Source: Reuters However, they became trouble when the neo-Nazi element impacted the group. Gergely Marosi, a sports journalism lecturer at Budapest Metropolitan University, told the Guardian, "Only the big matches had a proper atmosphere but the ultras of the clubs did not unite behind the national team or skipped the games altogether." "Because these ultras had their conflicts amongst themselves, sometimes they did not stand close to each other, otherwise there was a chance for trouble. That obviously did not help the atmosphere. Chants were disjointed and coming from different sectors; there were a lot of lifeless games in terms of fan performance." FIFA to investigate FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings looking into the clashes at Wembley, saying it has "zero tolerance against such abhorrent behaviour". "Following an analysis of the match reports, FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings in relation to yesterday's England v Hungary and Albania v Poland FIFA World Cup qualifier matches," FIFA said in a statement. Image: World Cup - UEFA Qualifiers - Group I - England v Hungary - Wembley Stadium, London, Britain - October 12, 2021 Hungary's Attila Szalai in action with England's John Stones. Source: Reuters. "Once again, FIFA strongly condemns the incidents at both matches and would like to state that its position remains firm and resolute in rejecting any form of violence as well as any form of discrimination or abuse. FIFA has a very clear zero-tolerance stance against such abhorrent behaviour in football," the statement added. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained: The Carpathian Brigade of Hungary football team. What's behind unruly fans?

Indian women's football team beat higher-ranked Chinese Taipei 1-0 in an international friendly match to end their four-match exposure tour on a winning note here on Wednesday.

Renu scored the all-important goal in the third minute and the Indians kept their opponents at bay till the end. Chinese Taipei are ranked 40th in the FIFA chart while the Indians are placed at 57th.

Thomas Dennerby's team had entered the match after a 5-0 win over Bahrain in their previous outing here on Sunday.

Besides the positive result against 85th-ranked Bahrain, India had beaten UAE 4-1 and lost to 77th-ranked Tunisia 0-1 in Dubai in international friendly matches earlier this month.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pyari-xaxa-shines-as-indian-womens-football-team-thrash-bahrain-5-0-419953">Pyari Xaxa shines as Indian women's football team thrash Bahrain 5-0</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Full-Time! 
 
Done and dusted! India register another victory, courtesy Renu's early strike tonight. 🙌🏼 
 
IND 1-0 TPE<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDTPE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDTPE</a> ⚔️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BackTheBlue?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BackTheBlue</a> 💙 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ShePower?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ShePower</a> 👧 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianFootball?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianFootball</a> ⚽ <a href="https://t.co/HfLUUEPN5Z">pic.twitter.com/HfLUUEPN5Z</a>
— Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianFootball/status/1448331426282147848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The friendly matches were a part of preparations for the AFC Asian Cup, which will be hosted by India in January-February.

Before the victory against 100th ranked UAE on October 2, the Indians were winless in the five previous matches this year, though all of them were against higher-ranked European sides.&nbsp;

Indian women's football team beat higher-ranked Chinese Taipei 1-0 in an international friendly match to end their four-match exposure tour on a winning note here on Wednesday.

Indian women's football team beat higher-ranked Chinese Taipei 1-0 in an international friendly match to end their four-match exposure tour on a winning note here on Wednesday. Renu scored the all-important goal in the third minute and the Indians kept their opponents at bay till the end. Chinese Taipei are ranked 40th in the FIFA chart while the Indians are placed at 57th. Thomas Dennerby's team had entered the match after a 5-0 win over Bahrain in their previous outing here on Sunday. Besides the positive result against 85th-ranked Bahrain, India had beaten UAE 4-1 and lost to 77th-ranked Tunisia 0-1 in Dubai in international friendly matches earlier this month. ALSO READ: Pyari Xaxa shines as Indian women's football team thrash Bahrain 5-0 Full-Time! Done and dusted! India register another victory, courtesy Renu's early strike tonight. 🙌🏼 IND 1-0 TPE#INDTPE ⚔️ #BackTheBlue 💙 #ShePower 👧 #IndianFootball ⚽ pic.twitter.com/HfLUUEPN5Z — Indian Football Team (@IndianFootball) October 13, 2021 × The friendly matches were a part of preparations for the AFC Asian Cup, which will be hosted by India in January-February. Before the victory against 100th ranked UAE on October 2, the Indians were winless in the five previous matches this year, though all of them were against higher-ranked European sides.

Indian women's football team beat higher-ranked Chinese Taipei 1-0 in international friendly

FIFA has "strongly condemned" the violence between fans and police during Hungary's World Cup qualifying match against England on Tuesday (October 12). The world football governing body said that it is probing the clashes at the Wembley Stadium and also noted that it has "zero tolerance against such abhorrent behaviour".

FIFA has "strongly condemned" the violence between fans and police during Hungary's World Cup qualifying match against England on Tuesday (October 12). The world football governing body said that it is probing the clashes at the Wembley Stadium and also noted that it has "zero tolerance against such abhorrent behaviour". Unbelievable scenes prevailed when England locked horns with a combative Hungarian side in a match that ended as a 1-1 draw and was marred by ugly scenes as just moments after kick-off, trouble flared among the pocket of around 1,000 Hungarians in one corner of the stadium. Dozens of Hungary supporters charged at stewards, who were forced to retreat before UK police wielding batons arrived. The fighting continued for several minutes before riot police finally restored order in the stands and the stadium concourse. ALSO READ | Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger says offside calls could be automated by next year The Metropolitan Police said they had taken action after a steward was racially abused. "Shortly after the start of tonight's match at Wembley, officers entered the stand to arrest a spectator for a racially aggravated public order offence following comments made towards a steward," the police said on Twitter. "As the officers made the arrest, minor disorder broke out involving other spectators. Order was quickly restored and there have been no further incidents at this stage." Last month, Hungary was fined and banned from having fans in their ground as punishment when they targeted England players with monkey chants and missiles during Euro 2020 match in September's Budapest clash. IN PICS | From Saudi PIF to Sheikh Mansour: Top five richest football club owners in the world Watch the video: Metropolitan Police running away from Hungary supporters at Wembley stadium last night.. pic.twitter.com/CTi5mRINCr — Paul B 🇬🇧 🔴 (@pauldbowen) October 13, 2021 × England manager Gareth Southgate said, "I was aware of a disturbance. It sounds like it was not acceptable but I haven't seen the detail." England defender Tyrone Mings said, "Every time we speak on racial abuse the punishments that follow never seem in line with what has happened. I sincerely hope that if that is the case, the punishments fall in line with what happened this time." Here's what happened: As the match started, trouble erupted between the fans and a group of stewards and a line of police then arrived and some were raining baton blows on fans, many of whom climbed over a barrier and were punching and kicking the security personnel. One fan fell to the ground with blood gushing from a head wound, while several police officers were also knocked down as the fans attacked them. The police then moved back out of sight down a tunnel and fans returned to their seats, with a group of helmeted riot police arriving in force. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: FIFA condemns 'abhorrent' violence as Hungary fans attack police inside Wembley Stadium

European clubs joined forces on Friday to rebuke FIFA for trying to railroad through plans for biennial World Cups, warning of a destructive impact on world football. 
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has infuriated the European Club Association, which is accusing the global governing body of being in breach of legal obligations with its rush to radically overhaul the sport and gain more control.

FIFA has been pushing internal interviews to media with retired players and former managers as it rushes to sweep up support from national associations for the plan to double the frequency of men's World Cups from every four years to two, while making the women's game appear to be an afterthought. UEFA has already expressed its concerns about FIFA's conduct and that has been echoed by the ECA, which represents 234 clubs.

The ECA said it would back a more balanced approach to club and international football by reducing the five windows typically in the year for players to be released for national team games to reduce the burden on players. It is the lack of apparent engagement by FIFA on the required new international match calendar (IMC) from 2024 that is troubling the clubs.

ECA has therefore followed with grave concern and alarm FIFA's launch of active PR campaigns and much pretence," the club body said in a statement to The Associated Press, "apparently seeking to railroad through reforms to the IMC, particularly the introduction of a biennial World Cup."

All 211 member federations of FIFA have been invited to online talks on Thursday on the new IMC. 
The plans surfaced again in May when Saudi Arabia's federation nominally proposed at the congress in May for FIFA to explore biennial World Cups. The Saudis have emerged as one of the closest allies of Infantino, who has made trips this year to see Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

It is former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger who has been deployed to sell the case for World Cups every two years in his role as FIFA chief of global football development. He gave presentations to the media before bodies such as UEFA on his vision for the match calendar after 2024 which requires the approval of the ECA so clubs release players for tournaments. FIFA was in light of the range of predisposed decisions and communications ... In direct and unilateral breach of certain legal obligations," the ECA said.

Aside from the notable lack of genuine (or indeed any) consultation, and as many stakeholders have pointed out in recent days, FIFA's proposals would lead to a direct and destructive impact on the club game, both domestically and internationally,&nbsp;the ECA added.

In addition, the proposals would put players' health and wellbeing at risk. They would dilute the value and meaning of club and country competitions." The ECA pointed to how the plans would ?diminish and conflict? with women's football that would lose their right to stage events in a European summer without a men's tournament. 
Any decisions relating to (the international match calendar's) future can only come about with the consent of football clubs,? the ECA said, with player welfare at their heart and in keeping with legally binding obligations which ordinarily should not need re-stating.

The ECA has, however, backed an expansion of the Champions League in conjunction with UEFA with the group stage due to jump from six to 10 matches per team from 2024. The only leading European clubs who are no longer ECA members are Barcelona, Real Madrid and Juventus over their ongoing pursuit of a European Super League. The breakaway was launched and collapsed in April, leading to Paris Saint-Germain chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi taking over as head of the ECA from Juventus chairman Andrea Agnelli.

Infantino was accused of being complicit in the formation of the breakaway plans by Europe's elite before belatedly denying he colluded with the rebels after months of silence. Infantino's links to the Super League have heightened suspicions within European football about his motivations for more regular World Cups that give FIFA an even greater influence on a sport with the club game at its heart.

The reform of the IMC must be founded on jointly agreed outcomes,the ECA said, "balanced in the interests of all, following honest and detailed consultation ? not simply railroaded in the singular interests of FIFA on the back of a series of PR campaigns.

European clubs joined forces on Friday to rebuke FIFA for trying to railroad through plans for biennial World Cups, warning of a destructive impact on world football.

European clubs joined forces on Friday to rebuke FIFA for trying to railroad through plans for biennial World Cups, warning of a destructive impact on world football. FIFA President Gianni Infantino has infuriated the European Club Association, which is accusing the global governing body of being in breach of legal obligations with its rush to radically overhaul the sport and gain more control. FIFA has been pushing internal interviews to media with retired players and former managers as it rushes to sweep up support from national associations for the plan to double the frequency of men's World Cups from every four years to two, while making the women's game appear to be an afterthought. UEFA has already expressed its concerns about FIFA's conduct and that has been echoed by the ECA, which represents 234 clubs. The ECA said it would back a more balanced approach to club and international football by reducing the five windows typically in the year for players to be released for national team games to reduce the burden on players. It is the lack of apparent engagement by FIFA on the required new international match calendar (IMC) from 2024 that is troubling the clubs. ECA has therefore followed with grave concern and alarm FIFA's launch of active PR campaigns and much pretence," the club body said in a statement to The Associated Press, "apparently seeking to railroad through reforms to the IMC, particularly the introduction of a biennial World Cup." All 211 member federations of FIFA have been invited to online talks on Thursday on the new IMC. The plans surfaced again in May when Saudi Arabia's federation nominally proposed at the congress in May for FIFA to explore biennial World Cups. The Saudis have emerged as one of the closest allies of Infantino, who has made trips this year to see Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. It is former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger who has been deployed to sell the case for World Cups every two years in his role as FIFA chief of global football development. He gave presentations to the media before bodies such as UEFA on his vision for the match calendar after 2024 which requires the approval of the ECA so clubs release players for tournaments. FIFA was in light of the range of predisposed decisions and communications ... In direct and unilateral breach of certain legal obligations," the ECA said. Aside from the notable lack of genuine (or indeed any) consultation, and as many stakeholders have pointed out in recent days, FIFA's proposals would lead to a direct and destructive impact on the club game, both domestically and internationally, the ECA added. In addition, the proposals would put players' health and wellbeing at risk. They would dilute the value and meaning of club and country competitions." The ECA pointed to how the plans would ?diminish and conflict? with women's football that would lose their right to stage events in a European summer without a men's tournament. Any decisions relating to (the international match calendar's) future can only come about with the consent of football clubs,? the ECA said, with player welfare at their heart and in keeping with legally binding obligations which ordinarily should not need re-stating. The ECA has, however, backed an expansion of the Champions League in conjunction with UEFA with the group stage due to jump from six to 10 matches per team from 2024. The only leading European clubs who are no longer ECA members are Barcelona, Real Madrid and Juventus over their ongoing pursuit of a European Super League. The breakaway was launched and collapsed in April, leading to Paris Saint-Germain chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi taking over as head of the ECA from Juventus chairman Andrea Agnelli. Infantino was accused of being complicit in the formation of the breakaway plans by Europe's elite before belatedly denying he colluded with the rebels after months of silence. Infantino's links to the Super League have heightened suspicions within European football about his motivations for more regular World Cups that give FIFA an even greater influence on a sport with the club game at its heart. The reform of the IMC must be founded on jointly agreed outcomes,the ECA said, "balanced in the interests of all, following honest and detailed consultation ? not simply railroaded in the singular interests of FIFA on the back of a series of PR campaigns.

Clubs accuse FIFA of legal breach, railroading World Cup overhaul

European football's governing body UEFA has urged FIFA to stop pushing its plan for a two-year World Cup and instead to engage in "genuine consultation" over reform of the international match calendar.

FIFA is conducting a feasibility study into holding the World Cup on a biennial basis, a change from the current four- yearly cycle, but has made no secret of its desire to switch to such a format.

Arsene Wenger, the former Arsenal manager who is now FIFA's head of Global Football Development, said this month he was "100% convinced" of the switch.

"UEFA is disappointed with the methodology adopted, which has so far led to radical reform projects being communicated and openly promoted before having been given, together with other stakeholders, the chance to participate in any consultation meeting," UEFA said in a statement on Wednesday.

UEFA said there were numerous concerns about the impact of such a switch including the "dilution" of the World Cup's value, risks of players being over-worked and women's football suffering from annual men's tournaments.

"These are just some of the serious concerns that the FIFA proposal provokes at first glance and they cannot be dispelled simply with unsubstantiated promotional slogans on the supposed benefits of a thicker calendar for final tournaments," the statement added.

UEFA said it had asked, on September&nbsp;14, for a meeting with FIFA and the 55 European member associations but has yet to get a reply.

FIFA did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin warned this month of a potential European boycott of the World Cup if FIFA's plans went ahead.

"We can decide not to play in it," Ceferin, head of European soccer's governing body, told The Times newspaper.

"As far as I know, the South Americans are on the same page. So good luck with a World Cup like that.

"I think it will never happen as it is so much against the basic principles of football.

European football's governing body UEFA has urged FIFA to stop pushing its plan for a two-year World Cup and instead to engage in "genuine consultation" over reform of the international match calendar.

European football's governing body UEFA has urged FIFA to stop pushing its plan for a two-year World Cup and instead to engage in "genuine consultation" over reform of the international match calendar. FIFA is conducting a feasibility study into holding the World Cup on a biennial basis, a change from the current four- yearly cycle, but has made no secret of its desire to switch to such a format. Arsene Wenger, the former Arsenal manager who is now FIFA's head of Global Football Development, said this month he was "100% convinced" of the switch. "UEFA is disappointed with the methodology adopted, which has so far led to radical reform projects being communicated and openly promoted before having been given, together with other stakeholders, the chance to participate in any consultation meeting," UEFA said in a statement on Wednesday. UEFA said there were numerous concerns about the impact of such a switch including the "dilution" of the World Cup's value, risks of players being over-worked and women's football suffering from annual men's tournaments. "These are just some of the serious concerns that the FIFA proposal provokes at first glance and they cannot be dispelled simply with unsubstantiated promotional slogans on the supposed benefits of a thicker calendar for final tournaments," the statement added. UEFA said it had asked, on September 14, for a meeting with FIFA and the 55 European member associations but has yet to get a reply. FIFA did not immediately respond to a request for comment. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin warned this month of a potential European boycott of the World Cup if FIFA's plans went ahead. "We can decide not to play in it," Ceferin, head of European soccer's governing body, told The Times newspaper. "As far as I know, the South Americans are on the same page. So good luck with a World Cup like that. "I think it will never happen as it is so much against the basic principles of football.

UEFA urges FIFA to stop pushing World Cup plan

FIFA says it has fan backing for the much-criticised plan to shift to a biennial World Cup after releasing a summary of the results of an opinion survey of supporters.

The proposals, which have been outlined by FIFA's head of Global Football Development, former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, have been met with widespread opposition from within the game.

FIFA's congress in May voted by a large majority to conduct a feasibility study into the potential of holding the World Cup every two years instead of every four.

FIFA used Germany sports research company IRIS and polling company YouGov and said the 15,000 respondents "were identified as expressing an interest in football and the FIFA World Cup, from a broader market research survey involving 23,000 people in 23 countries, across the organisation's six confederations".

It said the majority of fans would like to see a more frequent men's World Cup and of those respondents, a majority preferred a biennial competition.

FIFA later revealed a more detailed summary of the results which showed that while a majority of those surveyed favoured a more frequent tournament, the largest amount of support among all age groups was to maintain the status quo of holding the event every four years.

The only continental confederation whose fans did not place every four years as the most popular answer was in Africa where there was a tie on 35% for a time gap of four years and two years.

FIFA said in a statement that "there are considerable differences between the so-called traditional markets and the developing football markets" and said that younger fans were more open to change.

The organisation said an expanded survey involving 100,000 people in more than 100 countries was currently underway.

UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin has threatened a European boycott of the World Cup should the plans go ahead against his organisation's wishes.&nbsp;

South American confederation CONMEBOL has also come out against the plan along with the World Leagues Forum which represents the major national leagues.

Players union FIFPRO has said it has concerns about expanded workloads and a lack of consultation.&nbsp;

However, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) said it welcomes the consultation process and CONCACAF, which organises the game in North and Central America and the Caribbean, says it is studying the plans.

Wenger says the status quo causes too much disruption and forces players to make too many long trips around the world for qualifiers and friendly matches. He says his system would streamline the process while still keeping the balance of 80% club football and 20% national team football.

FIFA says it has fan backing for the much-criticised plan to shift to a biennial World Cup after releasing a summary of the results of an opinion survey of supporters.

FIFA says it has fan backing for the much-criticised plan to shift to a biennial World Cup after releasing a summary of the results of an opinion survey of supporters. The proposals, which have been outlined by FIFA's head of Global Football Development, former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, have been met with widespread opposition from within the game. FIFA's congress in May voted by a large majority to conduct a feasibility study into the potential of holding the World Cup every two years instead of every four. FIFA used Germany sports research company IRIS and polling company YouGov and said the 15,000 respondents "were identified as expressing an interest in football and the FIFA World Cup, from a broader market research survey involving 23,000 people in 23 countries, across the organisation's six confederations". It said the majority of fans would like to see a more frequent men's World Cup and of those respondents, a majority preferred a biennial competition. FIFA later revealed a more detailed summary of the results which showed that while a majority of those surveyed favoured a more frequent tournament, the largest amount of support among all age groups was to maintain the status quo of holding the event every four years. The only continental confederation whose fans did not place every four years as the most popular answer was in Africa where there was a tie on 35% for a time gap of four years and two years. FIFA said in a statement that "there are considerable differences between the so-called traditional markets and the developing football markets" and said that younger fans were more open to change. The organisation said an expanded survey involving 100,000 people in more than 100 countries was currently underway. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin has threatened a European boycott of the World Cup should the plans go ahead against his organisation's wishes. South American confederation CONMEBOL has also come out against the plan along with the World Leagues Forum which represents the major national leagues. Players union FIFPRO has said it has concerns about expanded workloads and a lack of consultation. However, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) said it welcomes the consultation process and CONCACAF, which organises the game in North and Central America and the Caribbean, says it is studying the plans. Wenger says the status quo causes too much disruption and forces players to make too many long trips around the world for qualifiers and friendly matches. He says his system would streamline the process while still keeping the balance of 80% club football and 20% national team football.

FIFA says survey shows majority of fans back more frequent World Cups

FIFA will allow Premier League players from Brazil, Chile, Mexico and Paraguay to compete this weekend after those countries agreed to waive a five-day travel restriction period, a source with knowledge of the matter told Reuters on Friday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-set-for-second-manchester-united-debut-against-newcastle-412224" hreflang="en">Cristiano Ronaldo set for second Manchester United debut against Newcastle</a> 
 
Liverpool, Manchester United, Chelsea and Manchester City were among clubs that did not release Brazilian players for the current international break due to them having to travel to COVID-19 "red list" countries. 
 
Sources this week said Premier League clubs could face sanctions from FIFA if they played South American players, who were not released for international duty, in this weekend`s games. 
 
But after extensive talks over the past 24 hours between FIFA and the relevant associations, a deal was reached that cleared the way for the players to compete without the risk of the clubs being sanctioned, the source told Reuters. 
 
FIFA, the English FA and Premier League are working closely together to find a solution with the UK government over red-list quarantine restrictions in the October international window, the source added. 
 
FIFA had waived its normal regulations on international call-ups during the COVID-19 pandemic but did not extend that waiver to cover the current games.

FIFA will allow Premier League players from Brazil, Chile, Mexico and Paraguay to compete this weekend after those countries agreed to waive a five-day travel restriction period, a source with knowledge of the matter told Reuters on Friday.

FIFA will allow Premier League players from Brazil, Chile, Mexico and Paraguay to compete this weekend after those countries agreed to waive a five-day travel restriction period, a source with knowledge of the matter told Reuters on Friday. ALSO READ: Cristiano Ronaldo set for second Manchester United debut against Newcastle Liverpool, Manchester United, Chelsea and Manchester City were among clubs that did not release Brazilian players for the current international break due to them having to travel to COVID-19 "red list" countries. Sources this week said Premier League clubs could face sanctions from FIFA if they played South American players, who were not released for international duty, in this weekend`s games. But after extensive talks over the past 24 hours between FIFA and the relevant associations, a deal was reached that cleared the way for the players to compete without the risk of the clubs being sanctioned, the source told Reuters. FIFA, the English FA and Premier League are working closely together to find a solution with the UK government over red-list quarantine restrictions in the October international window, the source added. FIFA had waived its normal regulations on international call-ups during the COVID-19 pandemic but did not extend that waiver to cover the current games.

FIFA backs down on threat to fine Premier League clubs who play South American players

European Leagues, the body representing professional club competitions on the continent, has firmly and unanimously opposed any proposals to stage the World Cup every two years. 
 
European Leagues is the latest among a number of stakeholders in the game who have expressed concerns over FIFA`s plans for a biennial World Cup. 
 
"The Leagues will work together with the other stakeholders to prevent football governing bodies to take unilateral decisions that will harm domestic football which is the foundation of our industry," the association said in a statement on Thursday. 
 
FIFA, acting on a suggestion made by the Saudi Arabia Football Federation earlier this year, is conducting a feasibility study into whether it can go ahead with the ambitious idea of a biennial World Cup. 
 
"New competitions, revamped competitions or expanded competitions for club and national team football both at continental level and/or at global level are not the solutions to the current problems of our game in an already congested calendar," added the European Leagues statement https://europeanleagues.com/european-leagues-statement-on-football-calendar. 
 
FIFA president Gianni Infantino on Wednesday said there were too many "meaningless international games" and such a system was unhealthy for the sport, adding that a new men`s calendar is likely to be introduced by the end of 2024 when the current cycle ends. 
&nbsp;

European Leagues, the body representing professional club competitions on the continent, has firmly and unanimously opposed any proposals to stage the World Cup every two years.

European Leagues, the body representing professional club competitions on the continent, has firmly and unanimously opposed any proposals to stage the World Cup every two years. European Leagues is the latest among a number of stakeholders in the game who have expressed concerns over FIFA`s plans for a biennial World Cup. "The Leagues will work together with the other stakeholders to prevent football governing bodies to take unilateral decisions that will harm domestic football which is the foundation of our industry," the association said in a statement on Thursday. FIFA, acting on a suggestion made by the Saudi Arabia Football Federation earlier this year, is conducting a feasibility study into whether it can go ahead with the ambitious idea of a biennial World Cup. "New competitions, revamped competitions or expanded competitions for club and national team football both at continental level and/or at global level are not the solutions to the current problems of our game in an already congested calendar," added the European Leagues statement https://europeanleagues.com/european-leagues-statement-on-football-calendar. FIFA president Gianni Infantino on Wednesday said there were too many "meaningless international games" and such a system was unhealthy for the sport, adding that a new men`s calendar is likely to be introduced by the end of 2024 when the current cycle ends.

European club body opposes biennial World Cup plans

England manager Gareth Southgate said he is open-minded about FIFA's proposals to hold the World Cup every two years, though he thought the tournament may lose some of its appeal if it moves away from the current four-year cycle.

FIFA's congress voted to carry out a feasibility study on holding the men's and women's World Cups every two years, a proposal which has been met with opposition, most notably from European governing body UEFA.

Southgate said he met with Arsene Wenger, FIFA's chief of global development, to discuss the proposals.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pele-in-hospital-but-no-cause-for-concern-his-manager-says-411174">Pele in hospital but no cause for concern, his manager says</a>

"As a traditionalist, it feels you could lose some of the allure of the World Cup because the scarcity of it makes it more important," he said.

"But I also get that if you are a player who has an injury for the World Cup, you might only get one opportunity every eight years, and that is really tough."

UEFA President Alexandr Ceferin said in a letter to Football Supporters Europe (FSE) last week there were "concerns across the footballing world" about FIFA's proposals.

Southgate said all stakeholders needed to be involved in the decision.

"The players' unions could gather the thoughts of the players and I just think everybody has to work together on the calendar. It has to be coordinated," he added.

"If we are looking that far ahead, there is no reason it can't be."

England manager Gareth Southgate said he is open-minded about FIFA's proposals to hold the World Cup every two years, though he thought the tournament may lose some of its appeal if it moves away from the current four-year cycle.

England manager Gareth Southgate said he is open-minded about FIFA's proposals to hold the World Cup every two years, though he thought the tournament may lose some of its appeal if it moves away from the current four-year cycle. FIFA's congress voted to carry out a feasibility study on holding the men's and women's World Cups every two years, a proposal which has been met with opposition, most notably from European governing body UEFA. Southgate said he met with Arsene Wenger, FIFA's chief of global development, to discuss the proposals. ALSO READ | Pele in hospital but no cause for concern, his manager says "As a traditionalist, it feels you could lose some of the allure of the World Cup because the scarcity of it makes it more important," he said. "But I also get that if you are a player who has an injury for the World Cup, you might only get one opportunity every eight years, and that is really tough." UEFA President Alexandr Ceferin said in a letter to Football Supporters Europe (FSE) last week there were "concerns across the footballing world" about FIFA's proposals. Southgate said all stakeholders needed to be involved in the decision. "The players' unions could gather the thoughts of the players and I just think everybody has to work together on the calendar. It has to be coordinated," he added. "If we are looking that far ahead, there is no reason it can't be."

Gareth Southgate open-minded about FIFA's biennial World Cup proposal

Football clubs worldwide splashed out $48.5 billion (41.1 billion euros) on international transfer fees over the past decade, almost half of which was spent by the top 30 clubs, FIFA revealed in a report published Monday.

The report charted the number of international transfers and loans concluded between FIFA's 200 member associations, totalling 133,225 such moves over the period from 2011 to 2020.

Transfer market activity rose steadily from 11,890 in 2011 to a peak of 18,079 in 2019, with Brazilian nationals (15,128) the most frequent movers to foreign clubs.

The number of clubs conducting international transfers increased by more than 30 percent over the past decade, from 3,167 in 2011 to a high of 4,139 in 2019.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-announcing-cristiano-ronaldos-homecoming-shatters-instagram-record-becomes-most-liked-sports-team-post-409558">Manchester United announcing Cristiano Ronaldo's homecoming shatters Instagram record, becomes most liked sports team post</a>

However the 30 top-spending clubs all came from Europe, led by England with 12. Spain and Italy had five each with Germany (three), France and Portugal (both two) and Russia (one) completing the list. &nbsp;

This group of clubs alone forked out $22.8 billion on transfer fees, representing 47 percent of the global total over the decade.

FIFA also highlighted the growing commissions paid to agents, which soared from 131.1 million in 2011 to 640.5 million two years ago. Agents pocketed $3.5 billion in commission on overseas deals over the course of the decade.

Football clubs worldwide splashed out $48.5 billion (41.1 billion euros) on international transfer fees over the past decade, almost half of which was spent by the top 30 clubs, FIFA revealed in a report published Monday.

Football clubs worldwide splashed out $48.5 billion (41.1 billion euros) on international transfer fees over the past decade, almost half of which was spent by the top 30 clubs, FIFA revealed in a report published Monday. The report charted the number of international transfers and loans concluded between FIFA's 200 member associations, totalling 133,225 such moves over the period from 2011 to 2020. Transfer market activity rose steadily from 11,890 in 2011 to a peak of 18,079 in 2019, with Brazilian nationals (15,128) the most frequent movers to foreign clubs. The number of clubs conducting international transfers increased by more than 30 percent over the past decade, from 3,167 in 2011 to a high of 4,139 in 2019. ALSO READ | Manchester United announcing Cristiano Ronaldo's homecoming shatters Instagram record, becomes most liked sports team post However the 30 top-spending clubs all came from Europe, led by England with 12. Spain and Italy had five each with Germany (three), France and Portugal (both two) and Russia (one) completing the list. This group of clubs alone forked out $22.8 billion on transfer fees, representing 47 percent of the global total over the decade. FIFA also highlighted the growing commissions paid to agents, which soared from 131.1 million in 2011 to 640.5 million two years ago. Agents pocketed $3.5 billion in commission on overseas deals over the course of the decade.

Europe's top 30 clubs account for half of global transfer spend

European clubs have accused world soccer`s governing body FIFA of abusing its regulatory function in a growing row over the extended-release of players for World Cup qualifiers in September and October. 
 
The Premier League and Spain`s LaLiga both said they backed clubs refusing to make players available for matches in South America. 
 
Premier League sides will be particularly hard hit by FIFA`s decision to extend a mandatory release period from nine to 11 days, to enable triple-headers to take place in South America. 
 
England`s strict quarantine rules have also added to the headache, with the Premier League saying no exemption had been granted by the government for football&nbsp;players. 
 
Liverpool had already refused to allow forward Mohamed Salah to travel to Africa for World Cup qualifiers with Egypt next month because he would be forced to quarantine on his return to England. 
 
The same measures could affect Liverpool’s Brazilian trio of Roberto Firmino, Alisson Becker and Fabinho, who have been called up for next month’s qualifiers against Chile, Argentina and Peru. 
 
Brazil, Chile, Argentina and Peru are all on the British government`s `red list` of countries that trigger a 10-day hotel quarantine to guard against the spread of COVID-19. 
 
"Premier League clubs have today reluctantly but unanimously decided not to release players for international matches played in red-list countries next month," the league said in a statement. 
 
Premier League players would potentially miss two matches if they were quarantined on their return. 
 
LALIGA SUPPORT 
 
Spain`s LaLiga said in a statement it would support clubs refusing to release their players for the South American qualifiers. 
 
"At the moment there are 25 players from 13 different clubs (affected), a number that could be expanded when the calls of Ecuador and Venezuela are announced," it said. 
 
"The Spanish association understands that the world calendar cannot and should not be changed in this way, especially if there are alternative solutions." 
 
It said affected clubs would be summoned to a meeting in coming days. 
 
With World Cup qualifiers also in Africa, Asia, the CONCACAF region and Europe, the clubs are on a potential collision course with FIFA. 
 
The European Club Association (ECA) wrote to members, in a Q&amp;A document seen by Reuters, saying FIFA had taken decisions unilaterally and "against the explicit objection of ECA and the rest of the stakeholders. 
 
"ECA has firmly expressed its objection to FIFA’s decision and has urged FIFA to review its position," it said. 
 
"ECA will not accept that a governing body like FIFA abuses its regulatory function in order to place its commercial interests and those of its member associations above the physical wellbeing of players and legitimate sporting interests of clubs." 
 
The ECA said FIFA had decided this month, at the request of South American confederation CONMEBOL, to extend the mandatory release period "in complete disregard to the clubs’ interests". 
 
It said FIFA was unlikely to change its decision and the ECA would have to consider what action to take. 
 
There was no immediate comment from FIFA.

European clubs have accused world soccer`s governing body FIFA of abusing its regulatory function in a growing row over the extended-release of players for World Cup qualifiers in September and October.

European clubs have accused world soccer`s governing body FIFA of abusing its regulatory function in a growing row over the extended-release of players for World Cup qualifiers in September and October. The Premier League and Spain`s LaLiga both said they backed clubs refusing to make players available for matches in South America. Premier League sides will be particularly hard hit by FIFA`s decision to extend a mandatory release period from nine to 11 days, to enable triple-headers to take place in South America. England`s strict quarantine rules have also added to the headache, with the Premier League saying no exemption had been granted by the government for football players. Liverpool had already refused to allow forward Mohamed Salah to travel to Africa for World Cup qualifiers with Egypt next month because he would be forced to quarantine on his return to England. The same measures could affect Liverpool’s Brazilian trio of Roberto Firmino, Alisson Becker and Fabinho, who have been called up for next month’s qualifiers against Chile, Argentina and Peru. Brazil, Chile, Argentina and Peru are all on the British government`s `red list` of countries that trigger a 10-day hotel quarantine to guard against the spread of COVID-19. "Premier League clubs have today reluctantly but unanimously decided not to release players for international matches played in red-list countries next month," the league said in a statement. Premier League players would potentially miss two matches if they were quarantined on their return. LALIGA SUPPORT Spain`s LaLiga said in a statement it would support clubs refusing to release their players for the South American qualifiers. "At the moment there are 25 players from 13 different clubs (affected), a number that could be expanded when the calls of Ecuador and Venezuela are announced," it said. "The Spanish association understands that the world calendar cannot and should not be changed in this way, especially if there are alternative solutions." It said affected clubs would be summoned to a meeting in coming days. With World Cup qualifiers also in Africa, Asia, the CONCACAF region and Europe, the clubs are on a potential collision course with FIFA. The European Club Association (ECA) wrote to members, in a Q&A document seen by Reuters, saying FIFA had taken decisions unilaterally and "against the explicit objection of ECA and the rest of the stakeholders. "ECA has firmly expressed its objection to FIFA’s decision and has urged FIFA to review its position," it said. "ECA will not accept that a governing body like FIFA abuses its regulatory function in order to place its commercial interests and those of its member associations above the physical wellbeing of players and legitimate sporting interests of clubs." The ECA said FIFA had decided this month, at the request of South American confederation CONMEBOL, to extend the mandatory release period "in complete disregard to the clubs’ interests". It said FIFA was unlikely to change its decision and the ECA would have to consider what action to take. There was no immediate comment from FIFA.

European clubs and FIFA at odds over World Cup qualifiers

FIFA, world soccer`s governing body, will receive $201 million in compensation for losses sustained in global soccer corruption schemes, the United States Department of Justice (DOJ), said on Tuesday. 
 
The money was seized from the bank accounts of former officials who were involved in the schemes and then prosecuted following a probe into years of corruption within world soccer.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/medics-who-saved-christian-eriksen-at-euros-to-receive-uefa-presidents-award-408120" hreflang="en">Medics who saved Christian Eriksen at Euros to receive UEFA President's Award</a> 
 
Since the DOJ unveiled the corruption probe in 2015, more than 50 defendants have been criminally charged. 27 people and four corporate entities have pleaded guilty, and two people were convicted at trial. 
 
"Today’s announcement confirms that money stolen by corrupt soccer officials and sports marketing executives through fraud and greed will be returned to where it belongs and used to benefit the sport,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Jacquelyn Kasulis for the Eastern District of New York in a statement. 
 
“From the start, this investigation and prosecution have been focused on bringing wrongdoers to justice and restoring ill-gotten gains to those who work for the benefit of the beautiful game." 
 
The DOJ said $32.3 million in forfeited funds has been approved for an initial distribution to FIFA, CONCACAF, the confederation responsible for soccer in North and Central America, CONMEBOL, which represents soccer in South America, and various constituent national soccer federations. 
 
The funds will go into a new World Football Remission Fund to help finance football-related projects across the globe. 
 
"I am delighted to see that money which was illegally siphoned out of football is now coming back to be used for its proper purposes, as it should have been in the first place," said FIFA President Gianni Infantino in a statement https://www.fifa.com/about-fifa/organisation/media-releases/us-department-of-justice-awards-fifa-foundation-usd-201-million-compensation. 
 
"I would like to thank the U.S. authorities for the trust placed in FIFA, and we will make sure that these funds are used properly and bring tangible benefits for people who really need it." 
 
Many of the defendants were ordered to forfeit assets obtained through criminal activity. 
 
Under U.S. law the DOJ has the authority to distribute the proceeds of forfeited assets to victims of crimes, including to the soccer organisations that were defrauded. 
 
Reynaldo Vasquez, the former president of El Salvador`s soccer federation, pleaded guilty on Monday to a racketeering conspiracy charge arising from a corruption investigation involving the payment of bribes to stage and broadcast matches. 
 
"Kickbacks and bribes have a way of spreading like a disease through corrupt groups; pure and simple greed keeps the graft going,” said Assistant Director-in-Charge Michael J. Driscoll of the FBI’s New York Field Office. 
 
“Not one official in this investigation seemed to care about the damage being done to a sport that millions around the world revere. 
 
"The only silver lining is the money will now help underprivileged people who need it, not the wealthy executives who just wanted it to get richer. 
 
"Our work isn’t finished, and our promise to those who love the game - we won’t give up until everyone sees justice for what they’ve done."

FIFA, world soccer`s governing body, will receive $201 million in compensation for losses sustained in global soccer corruption schemes, the United States Department of Justice (DOJ), said on Tuesday.

FIFA, world soccer`s governing body, will receive $201 million in compensation for losses sustained in global soccer corruption schemes, the United States Department of Justice (DOJ), said on Tuesday. The money was seized from the bank accounts of former officials who were involved in the schemes and then prosecuted following a probe into years of corruption within world soccer. ALSO READ: Medics who saved Christian Eriksen at Euros to receive UEFA President's Award Since the DOJ unveiled the corruption probe in 2015, more than 50 defendants have been criminally charged. 27 people and four corporate entities have pleaded guilty, and two people were convicted at trial. "Today’s announcement confirms that money stolen by corrupt soccer officials and sports marketing executives through fraud and greed will be returned to where it belongs and used to benefit the sport,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Jacquelyn Kasulis for the Eastern District of New York in a statement. “From the start, this investigation and prosecution have been focused on bringing wrongdoers to justice and restoring ill-gotten gains to those who work for the benefit of the beautiful game." The DOJ said $32.3 million in forfeited funds has been approved for an initial distribution to FIFA, CONCACAF, the confederation responsible for soccer in North and Central America, CONMEBOL, which represents soccer in South America, and various constituent national soccer federations. The funds will go into a new World Football Remission Fund to help finance football-related projects across the globe. "I am delighted to see that money which was illegally siphoned out of football is now coming back to be used for its proper purposes, as it should have been in the first place," said FIFA President Gianni Infantino in a statement https://www.fifa.com/about-fifa/organisation/media-releases/us-department-of-justice-awards-fifa-foundation-usd-201-million-compensation. "I would like to thank the U.S. authorities for the trust placed in FIFA, and we will make sure that these funds are used properly and bring tangible benefits for people who really need it." Many of the defendants were ordered to forfeit assets obtained through criminal activity. Under U.S. law the DOJ has the authority to distribute the proceeds of forfeited assets to victims of crimes, including to the soccer organisations that were defrauded. Reynaldo Vasquez, the former president of El Salvador`s soccer federation, pleaded guilty on Monday to a racketeering conspiracy charge arising from a corruption investigation involving the payment of bribes to stage and broadcast matches. "Kickbacks and bribes have a way of spreading like a disease through corrupt groups; pure and simple greed keeps the graft going,” said Assistant Director-in-Charge Michael J. Driscoll of the FBI’s New York Field Office. “Not one official in this investigation seemed to care about the damage being done to a sport that millions around the world revere. "The only silver lining is the money will now help underprivileged people who need it, not the wealthy executives who just wanted it to get richer. "Our work isn’t finished, and our promise to those who love the game - we won’t give up until everyone sees justice for what they’ve done."

FIFA to receive over $201 million in compensation from corruption probe

FIFA will carry out a feasibility study on holding the World Cup and the women's World Cup every two years after backing a proposal at its annual congress on Friday.

The two competitions are currently held every four years but the Saudi Arabian&nbsp;Football&nbsp;Federation (SAFF) put forward a proposal for a study of the impact of switching to every two years.

"We believe the future of&nbsp;football&nbsp;is at a critical juncture. The many issues that&nbsp;football&nbsp;has faced have now been further exacerbated by the ongoing pandemic," said SAFF president Yasser Al-Misehal.

"It is time to review how the global game is structured and to consider what is best for the future of our sport. This should include whether the current four-year cycle remains the optimum basis for how&nbsp;football&nbsp;is managed both from a competition and commercial perspective," he added.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino called it an "eloquent and detailed proposal" with 166 national federations voting in favor with 22 votes against.

Speaking after the congress, Infantino told reporters that the study would look at the competitions within the context of the review of the overall international match calendar.

"It doesn't matter right now what I think, it matters what results in the study is coming up with," he said.

"We have to go into this study with an open mind... we know about the value of the World Cup, believe me, we know as well about the impact that the World Cup can have."

But Infantino questioned whether the current system of regular qualifiers throughout a year ahead of continental championships and World Cups was the best model.

"Do we really think this is the right way for&nbsp;football&nbsp;when we are hearing that fans say they want more meaningful games, less meaningless games, all of these points have to be considered?"

"We will discuss it, we will analyze it but we will, in all discussions, put the sporting element as a priority not the commercial element," he said, saying he knew that holding twice as many World Cups would not mean doubling the revenue.

FIFA will carry out a feasibility study on holding the World Cup and the women's World Cup every two years after backing a proposal at its annual congress on Friday.

FIFA will carry out a feasibility study on holding the World Cup and the women's World Cup every two years after backing a proposal at its annual congress on Friday. The two competitions are currently held every four years but the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF) put forward a proposal for a study of the impact of switching to every two years. "We believe the future of football is at a critical juncture. The many issues that football has faced have now been further exacerbated by the ongoing pandemic," said SAFF president Yasser Al-Misehal. "It is time to review how the global game is structured and to consider what is best for the future of our sport. This should include whether the current four-year cycle remains the optimum basis for how football is managed both from a competition and commercial perspective," he added. FIFA president Gianni Infantino called it an "eloquent and detailed proposal" with 166 national federations voting in favor with 22 votes against. Speaking after the congress, Infantino told reporters that the study would look at the competitions within the context of the review of the overall international match calendar. "It doesn't matter right now what I think, it matters what results in the study is coming up with," he said. "We have to go into this study with an open mind... we know about the value of the World Cup, believe me, we know as well about the impact that the World Cup can have." But Infantino questioned whether the current system of regular qualifiers throughout a year ahead of continental championships and World Cups was the best model. "Do we really think this is the right way for football when we are hearing that fans say they want more meaningful games, less meaningless games, all of these points have to be considered?" "We will discuss it, we will analyze it but we will, in all discussions, put the sporting element as a priority not the commercial element," he said, saying he knew that holding twice as many World Cups would not mean doubling the revenue.

Football: FIFA to carry out study on holding World Cup every two years

FIFA President Gianni Infantino addressed the G20 Anti-Corruption Working Group on the last day of its videoconference summit and shared 11 key reforms to combat corruption in football.

Invited to speak on the fight against corruption in sport, Infantino shared the lessons that the new FIFA has learned through its post-2016 reforms, as well as from the corruption scandal that brought down the previous administration.

Laying out the path taken by world football`s governing body in the first five years of his presidency, the FIFA President listed 11 key reforms designed "to tackle corruption, to bring back accountability in FIFA, in football more generally, and to safeguard the integrity of football and, of course, FIFA."

In particular, those reforms were: a fully transparent bidding process for the FIFA World Cup; the separation of political and executive powers; terms limits and eligibility checks for elected officials; transparency of finances and compensation; a transparent and centrally supervised transfer system; audited football development investment with accountability, which includes a five-time increase in such investment (USD 1.8 bn) when compared to the past; internal and external compliance overseen by an independent Audit and Compliance Committee; judicial bodies guided by a new FIFA Code of Ethics; strict tender processes for transparent procurement; the promotion of women to decision-making positions in football administration; and the formalised protection of human rights, and the protection of minors and children in sport, as it is important that our children are in a safe environment.

President Infantino expressed FIFA`s desire to establish partnerships with the members of the G20 and pointed to the power of football to help combat corruption: "It`s crucial that the G20 takes an interest in these matters and gives a clear policy direction because football is much more than just a sport. Sport, in general, is so important for our society, economically and socially, but also in terms of education. We are here to offer our collaboration, we are here to offer our part as a player of a global team to fight corruption."&nbsp;

FIFA President Gianni Infantino addressed the G20 Anti-Corruption Working Group on the last day of its videoconference summit and shared 11 key reforms to combat corruption in football.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino addressed the G20 Anti-Corruption Working Group on the last day of its videoconference summit and shared 11 key reforms to combat corruption in football. Invited to speak on the fight against corruption in sport, Infantino shared the lessons that the new FIFA has learned through its post-2016 reforms, as well as from the corruption scandal that brought down the previous administration. Laying out the path taken by world football`s governing body in the first five years of his presidency, the FIFA President listed 11 key reforms designed "to tackle corruption, to bring back accountability in FIFA, in football more generally, and to safeguard the integrity of football and, of course, FIFA." In particular, those reforms were: a fully transparent bidding process for the FIFA World Cup; the separation of political and executive powers; terms limits and eligibility checks for elected officials; transparency of finances and compensation; a transparent and centrally supervised transfer system; audited football development investment with accountability, which includes a five-time increase in such investment (USD 1.8 bn) when compared to the past; internal and external compliance overseen by an independent Audit and Compliance Committee; judicial bodies guided by a new FIFA Code of Ethics; strict tender processes for transparent procurement; the promotion of women to decision-making positions in football administration; and the formalised protection of human rights, and the protection of minors and children in sport, as it is important that our children are in a safe environment. President Infantino expressed FIFA`s desire to establish partnerships with the members of the G20 and pointed to the power of football to help combat corruption: "It`s crucial that the G20 takes an interest in these matters and gives a clear policy direction because football is much more than just a sport. Sport, in general, is so important for our society, economically and socially, but also in terms of education. We are here to offer our collaboration, we are here to offer our part as a player of a global team to fight corruption."

FIFA President lists 11 key reforms to combat corruption in football

FIFA has warned of suspending the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) if its secretariat in Lahore was not handed back to the FIFA-installed Normalisation Committee by 8 PM on Wednesday. &nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-qualifiers-belgium-hit-eight-seven-for-dutch-portugal-survive-scare-374395" hreflang="en">World Cup Qualifiers: Belgium hit eight, seven for Dutch, Portugal survive scare</a>

PFF Normalisation Committee chairman Haroon Malik, in a statement, said he received a letter from FIFA that condemned "illegitimate occupation of the PFF headquarters".&nbsp;

The letter stated that the federation could be "suspended should the illegitimate occupation of the PFF headquarters not be lifted and the office bearers recognised by FIFA not be permitted free access to the building".

The row erupted after a group of football officials led by Ashfaq Hussain Shah,&nbsp;who had been elected in a poll held by the Supreme Court in 2018, took over the PFF Headquarters in Lahore on Saturday evening. Shah went on to claim that his officials don't fear FIFA and being banned will not affect them.&nbsp;

Haroon Malik, in the statement, said that if the occupants under Shah, do not comply with the orders, the world's football governing body will "immediately" submit the matter to "the Bureau of the Council for decision, which might include the suspension of PFF on the basis of [Article] 16 para 1 of the FIFA Statutes".

The letter said that FIFA "strongly condemns the incident and considers such actions to be totally unacceptable".

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/robert-lewandowski-ruled-out-for-four-weeks-after-sustaining-knee-injury-374380" hreflang="en">Robert Lewandowski ruled out for four weeks after sustaining knee injury</a>

"We would like to remind all relevant parties, in particular the individuals who invaded the PFF premises, that the Normalisation Committee of PFF, established by a decision of the Bureau of the Council and later ratified by the FIFA Council, and which is currently led by your person (Haroon Malik), is the sole executive body of PFF recognised by FIFA," it added.

"FIFA further considers that the illegitimate occupation of the PFF headquarters, as well as any decision to take over the leadership of the PFF from the Normalisation Committee appointed by FIFA, constitutes an undue interference in the affairs of the Federation, therefore violating the obligations imposed on PFF by [Article] 14 para 1 let. i) and [Article] 19 of the FIFA Statutes."

As per FIFA, the Pakistan Football Federation will lose all its membership rights like "the right of PFF's national teams or any of its clubs to participate in any international competitions, as well as the right of PFF and its members to benefit from FIFA's financial/development programmes".&nbsp;

The letter was sent by FIFA's Secretary General Fatma Samoura and received by Haroon Malik, the NC chairman.&nbsp;

FIFA has warned of suspending the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) if its secretariat in Lahore was not handed back to the FIFA-installed Normalisation Committee by 8 PM on Wednesday.

FIFA has warned of suspending the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) if its secretariat in Lahore was not handed back to the FIFA-installed Normalisation Committee by 8 PM on Wednesday. ALSO READ: World Cup Qualifiers: Belgium hit eight, seven for Dutch, Portugal survive scare PFF Normalisation Committee chairman Haroon Malik, in a statement, said he received a letter from FIFA that condemned "illegitimate occupation of the PFF headquarters". The letter stated that the federation could be "suspended should the illegitimate occupation of the PFF headquarters not be lifted and the office bearers recognised by FIFA not be permitted free access to the building". The row erupted after a group of football officials led by Ashfaq Hussain Shah, who had been elected in a poll held by the Supreme Court in 2018, took over the PFF Headquarters in Lahore on Saturday evening. Shah went on to claim that his officials don't fear FIFA and being banned will not affect them. Haroon Malik, in the statement, said that if the occupants under Shah, do not comply with the orders, the world's football governing body will "immediately" submit the matter to "the Bureau of the Council for decision, which might include the suspension of PFF on the basis of [Article] 16 para 1 of the FIFA Statutes". The letter said that FIFA "strongly condemns the incident and considers such actions to be totally unacceptable". ALSO READ: Robert Lewandowski ruled out for four weeks after sustaining knee injury "We would like to remind all relevant parties, in particular the individuals who invaded the PFF premises, that the Normalisation Committee of PFF, established by a decision of the Bureau of the Council and later ratified by the FIFA Council, and which is currently led by your person (Haroon Malik), is the sole executive body of PFF recognised by FIFA," it added. "FIFA further considers that the illegitimate occupation of the PFF headquarters, as well as any decision to take over the leadership of the PFF from the Normalisation Committee appointed by FIFA, constitutes an undue interference in the affairs of the Federation, therefore violating the obligations imposed on PFF by [Article] 14 para 1 let. i) and [Article] 19 of the FIFA Statutes." As per FIFA, the Pakistan Football Federation will lose all its membership rights like "the right of PFF's national teams or any of its clubs to participate in any international competitions, as well as the right of PFF and its members to benefit from FIFA's financial/development programmes". The letter was sent by FIFA's Secretary General Fatma Samoura and received by Haroon Malik, the NC chairman.

'Totally unacceptable': FIFA warns Pakistan of suspension after 'illegitimate' take over

The acting head of African soccer, Constant Omari Selemani, has been disqualified from standing in March’s Confederation of African Football elections, effectively ending his tenure on the FIFA Council and as a vice president of CAF.

The FIFA review committee said on Wednesday Selemani had failed the eligibility test for a position on the FIFA Council "because of an ongoing formal investigation by the FIFA ethics committee”.

Selemani and CAF could not immediately be reached for comment.

Selemani had been seeking re-election to the FIFA Council when CAF holds its elections on March 12 in Rabat, Morocco.

FIFA Council members are automatically also members of CAFs executive committee and in mid-2019, Selemani was named CAF’s first vice president by then president Ahmad Ahmad.

Wednesday's decision follows just months after Ahmad was banned.

Ahmad was banned for five years by FIFA in November after being accused of abusing office, mishandling of funds and trading gifts. He has denied any wrongdoing.

There are no details of the ethics committee investigation into Selemani, who was appointed acting head of African football when Ahmad’s ban was announced and will continue until March’s elections.

Ahmad has also been ruled out of March’s elections, where four candidates are seeking the presidency -- Jacques Anouma of the Ivory Coast, Mauritania football association president Ahmed Yahya, Senegal FA president Augustin Senghor and South African billionaire businessman Patrice Motsepe.

Five African seats on the FIFA Council will also be determined by the voting of the CAF member countries at the election.

The acting head of African soccer, Constant Omari Selemani, has been disqualified from standing in March’s Confederation of African Football elections, effectively ending his tenure on the FIFA Council and as a vice president of CAF.

The acting head of African soccer, Constant Omari Selemani, has been disqualified from standing in March’s Confederation of African Football elections, effectively ending his tenure on the FIFA Council and as a vice president of CAF. The FIFA review committee said on Wednesday Selemani had failed the eligibility test for a position on the FIFA Council "because of an ongoing formal investigation by the FIFA ethics committee”. Selemani and CAF could not immediately be reached for comment. Selemani had been seeking re-election to the FIFA Council when CAF holds its elections on March 12 in Rabat, Morocco. FIFA Council members are automatically also members of CAFs executive committee and in mid-2019, Selemani was named CAF’s first vice president by then president Ahmad Ahmad. Wednesday's decision follows just months after Ahmad was banned. Ahmad was banned for five years by FIFA in November after being accused of abusing office, mishandling of funds and trading gifts. He has denied any wrongdoing. There are no details of the ethics committee investigation into Selemani, who was appointed acting head of African football when Ahmad’s ban was announced and will continue until March’s elections. Ahmad has also been ruled out of March’s elections, where four candidates are seeking the presidency -- Jacques Anouma of the Ivory Coast, Mauritania football association president Ahmed Yahya, Senegal FA president Augustin Senghor and South African billionaire businessman Patrice Motsepe. Five African seats on the FIFA Council will also be determined by the voting of the CAF member countries at the election.

Acting CAF president Selemani disqualified from FIFA elections

FIFA has officially rejected Atletico Madrid's appeal against Kieran Trippier's gambling ban.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-star-lionel-messi-receives-first-red-card-in-club-career-357496" hreflang="en">Barcelona star Lionel Messi receives first red card in club career</a>

On December 20, 2020, English Football Association (FA) suspended Atletico Madrid and England's defender Kieran Trippier for 10 weeks and fined £70,000 following a breach of betting rules.&nbsp;

The 30-year-old denied seven alleged breaches of FA Rule E8, which were said to occur in July 2019, and requested a personal hearing.

An FA statement read: "An independent regulatory commission was appointed to hear the case, with four of the alleged breaches found proven and three dismissed during a subsequent personal hearing.

"The independent regulatory commission's written reasons for its decisions and the associated sanction will be published in due course."

However, FIFA dismissed the appeal. They said: "The FIFA Appeal Committee has dismissed the appeal lodged by the club Atletico Madrid in a case concerning the player Kieran Trippier.

"As a consequence, the decision of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee passed on 23 December 2020 is confirmed, extending sanctions imposed on the player by the English FA to have worldwide effect."

FIFA has officially rejected Atletico Madrid's appeal against Kieran Trippier's gambling ban. ALSO READ: Barcelona star Lionel Messi receives first red card in club career On December 20, 2020, English Football Association (FA) suspended Atletico Madrid and England's defender Kieran Trippier for 10 weeks and fined £70,000 following a breach of betting rules.

FIFA has officially rejected Atletico Madrid's appeal against Kieran Trippier's gambling ban. ALSO READ: Barcelona star Lionel Messi receives first red card in club career On December 20, 2020, English Football Association (FA) suspended Atletico Madrid and England's defender Kieran Trippier for 10 weeks and fined £70,000 following a breach of betting rules. The 30-year-old denied seven alleged breaches of FA Rule E8, which were said to occur in July 2019, and requested a personal hearing. An FA statement read: "An independent regulatory commission was appointed to hear the case, with four of the alleged breaches found proven and three dismissed during a subsequent personal hearing. "The independent regulatory commission's written reasons for its decisions and the associated sanction will be published in due course." However, FIFA dismissed the appeal. They said: "The FIFA Appeal Committee has dismissed the appeal lodged by the club Atletico Madrid in a case concerning the player Kieran Trippier. "As a consequence, the decision of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee passed on 23 December 2020 is confirmed, extending sanctions imposed on the player by the English FA to have worldwide effect."

FIFA dismisses Atletico Madrid's appeal against Kieran Trippier's gambling ban

FIFA has decided to cancel their Under-17 and Under-20 World Cups that was scheduled to be played next year due to coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

These World Cups will now be staged in 2023, with Indonesia still hosting the U20s and Peru the U17s.

FIFA says “the COVID-19 pandemic continues to present challenges for the hosting of international sporting events and to have a restrictive effect on international travel.”

The governing body added, “it became clear that the global situation has failed to normalize to a sufficient level to address the challenges associated with hosting both tournaments, including the feasibility of the relevant qualification pathways.”

Earlier, UEFA had decided to cancel this year's Euros and postponed it to 2021. Coronavirus pandemic has been the reason for many cancellations in the sporting fraternity.&nbsp;

FIFA has decided to cancel their Under-17 and Under-20 World Cups that was scheduled to be played next year due to coronavirus pandemic. These World Cups will now be staged in 2023, with Indonesia still hosting the U20s and Peru the U17s.

FIFA has decided to cancel their Under-17 and Under-20 World Cups that was scheduled to be played next year due to coronavirus pandemic. These World Cups will now be staged in 2023, with Indonesia still hosting the U20s and Peru the U17s. FIFA says “the COVID-19 pandemic continues to present challenges for the hosting of international sporting events and to have a restrictive effect on international travel.” The governing body added, “it became clear that the global situation has failed to normalize to a sufficient level to address the challenges associated with hosting both tournaments, including the feasibility of the relevant qualification pathways.” Earlier, UEFA had decided to cancel this year's Euros and postponed it to 2021. Coronavirus pandemic has been the reason for many cancellations in the sporting fraternity.

FIFA Under-17 and Under-20 World Cup 2021 cancelled due to COVID-19

Fourth stadium for FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 unveiled

Women's World Cup winner Megan Rapinoe has said her inclusion in FIFA's "Women's World11" team of the year despite playing so little is a sign that the women's game needs more visibility and exposure.

Rapinoe, who was named best player at the 2019 World Cup and finished top scorer, said she appreciated being included in the team of the year but pointed out she had not played since March, when the coronavirus pandemic disrupted global sport.

The winger said on Twitter she appreciated being chosen by her fellow professionals but other players deserved more recognition this year.

"We have so many phenomenal female players around the world and all of us need to do what we can to recognise them," she said.

She added that her inclusion "sheds light on the fact that to push our game forward we need continued investment ... to give more female players the opportunity to be seen on TV in their home countries and globally while performing for club and country".

Rapinoe, who won FIFA's The Best award last year and gained extra attention for her criticism of U.S. President Donald Trump, chose not to play for her club OL Reign when the U.S. women's season resumed in June.

But she said she was excited to return to playing next year, when the United States will be playing in the Olympic Games in Tokyo.

"The future of our game is so bright, the potential is limitless, and our commitment to pushing it forward from every possible angle has to match that," she added.

"Again, I am honoured and flattered to have been recognised by my peers for this honour, and look forward to getting back out on the field in 2021!"

Women's World Cup winner Megan Rapinoe has said her inclusion in FIFA's "Women's World11" team of the year despite playing so little is a sign that the women's game needs more visibility and exposure.

Women's World Cup winner Megan Rapinoe has said her inclusion in FIFA's "Women's World11" team of the year despite playing so little is a sign that the women's game needs more visibility and exposure. Rapinoe, who was named best player at the 2019 World Cup and finished top scorer, said she appreciated being included in the team of the year but pointed out she had not played since March, when the coronavirus pandemic disrupted global sport. The winger said on Twitter she appreciated being chosen by her fellow professionals but other players deserved more recognition this year. "We have so many phenomenal female players around the world and all of us need to do what we can to recognise them," she said. She added that her inclusion "sheds light on the fact that to push our game forward we need continued investment ... to give more female players the opportunity to be seen on TV in their home countries and globally while performing for club and country". Rapinoe, who won FIFA's The Best award last year and gained extra attention for her criticism of U.S. President Donald Trump, chose not to play for her club OL Reign when the U.S. women's season resumed in June. But she said she was excited to return to playing next year, when the United States will be playing in the Olympic Games in Tokyo. "The future of our game is so bright, the potential is limitless, and our commitment to pushing it forward from every possible angle has to match that," she added. "Again, I am honoured and flattered to have been recognised by my peers for this honour, and look forward to getting back out on the field in 2021!"

Megan Rapinoe questions her inclusion in FIFA team of year

fifa

Fifa, News on Fifa, stories on Fifa, articles on Fifa, Fifa stories at Wion, Fifa news, Fifa latest news