Players
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Building close relations with footballers is fundamental to our mission, from providing opportunities and access to the necessary infrastructure and support at all levels of the pyramid to delivering world-class competitions in which they can excel.
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We engage with footballers across all aspects of the European game so they can fulfil their potential on and off the field. This includes protecting players' health and welfare, creating pathways for young talent, and giving professionals a voice in our decisions on matters that can have a significant impact on them.
How we collaborate
We interact with players in many ways, but primarily through FIFPRO Europe, the recognised representative body of player unions across Europe with over 36 member player associations.
In October 2024, we signed an historic Memorandum of Understanding to enhance collaboration and player representation in European football governance, with FIFPRO Europe taking a seat within UEFA’s governance structures and, since February 2026, represented on the UEFA Executive Committee. This will help ensure that players’ voices are directly heard at European football’s highest decision-making table, alongside those of national associations, leagues and clubs.
FIFPRO Europe and its member unions are also present in many of UEFA's standing committees as well as other topic-specific working groups involving other stakeholders. In 2024, UEFA created the Professional Players Advisory Forum, a dedicated platform made up of representatives from FIFPRO Europe, its member unions, and a mix of active and former players.
"Players are a central part of our game, and their voice deserves to be heard at the highest level. Welcoming FIFPRO Europe and David Terrier into the UEFA Executive Committee is a logical and positive step that reflects our commitment to inclusive and representative governance."
"By including FIFPRO Europe in its governance structure, UEFA is leading by example among regional football confederations. This strengthens trust and stability among stakeholders and is a positive development towards the implementation of collective agreements that offer a fair and sustainable way to regulate professional football."
Where we work together
UEFA's consultation with players includes:
Player representation
- Inclusion in decision-making processes, including the UEFA Executive Committee
Player eligibility and registration
- Transfer status and registration deadlines
Player welfare
- Regulations on match scheduling, medical standards and anti-doping measures
Player development
- Resources and support for joint development programmes with FIFPRO Europe and its members, including player education, research projects and out-of-contract training camps. During the 2025/26 season, this included more than 35 separate programmes across Europe.
Financial sustainability
- Regulations protecting players’ financial and employment security
Youth players
- Providing opportunities and funding for young footballers
Player education
- Resources and support for player development off the field, including financial literacy, career planning and personal development programmes
Anti-discrimination and inclusion
- Policies and campaigns aimed at tackling racism, sexism, homophobia and other forms of discrimination
Player recognition and awards
- Awards recognising outstanding player performances; from 2024 this includes the prestigious Ballon d’Or
