Ligue 1 (French league) criticizes FIFA

PARIS: FIFA's leadership faced further criticism on Thursday with the Ligue 1 (French league) opposing demands that players are released by clubs for World Cup qualifiers despite the logistical and health challenges posed by the pandemic.

FIFA extended the international window next month to allow South American teams to play a third World Cup qualifier less than two days before domestic leagues are due to resume in Europe.

Ligue 1 said in a statement that it "regrets the total lack of consideration by FIFA of the interests of national championships and clubs as employers of players."

It backed the position of the top divisions in England, Spain and Italy as well as the World Leagues' Forum and European Club Association in questioning the conduct of Gianni Infantino's FIFA in providing no flexibility on the release of players.

"This unilateral decision taken in the midst of a pandemic with strong constraints related to the movement of players and the resulting quarantine rules during their return from selection poses major problems for the availability of club staff and the balance of the championships," Ligue 1 said.

It stopped short of saying there was a collective decision by clubs not to send players — as Premier League clubs had done.

Infantino this week issued a statement comparing the work in dealing with the pandemic with the need for national teams to have the players they want.

"Together we have shown solidarity and unity in the fight against COVID-19," said Infantino, who FIFA declined to make available for interview. Agencies

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