FIFA approves regulations aimed at improving the well-being of female players

FIFA’s council has approved changes to soccer’s governing body’s regulations to further provide additional protection for the well-being of players and coaches, it said in a statement on Friday.

The changes will come into force on June 1 and will increase the rights and protection of both adoptive parents and non-biological mothers.

The new rules will also take into account “the physical, psychological and social dimensions when it is impossible to provide employment services due to heavy periods or medical complications related to pregnancy.”

Member associations will also be encouraged to allow female players to have contact with their families while on international duty.

“FIFA is committed to implementing a dynamic regulatory framework that is robust and appropriate to the growing needs of female players and coaches,” said Emilio García Silvero, FIFA chief legal officer.

“As a modern organization, FIFA has a responsibility to listen to key players and adapt its rules to the increasingly complex dynamics of professional football,” he added.

Several players repeatedly drew attention to the special demands placed on women in football. Some of them, such as former German players Melanie Leupolz and Svenja Huth, retired from international duty after becoming mothers.