We, the undersigned, are passionate enthusiasts of soccer and campaigners for the welfare of our dear footballers. Love for this game is a big part and a parcel of our lives as some of us actively participate in playing soccer at a young age. To us, soccer is more than just a game, it is a community that brings happiness and inspiration. However, we have noticed an alarming trend which seems to disturb our most treasured sport in the professional soccer calendar.

Nowadays, professional footballers are overburdened by an excessively tight program consisting of league games within their own countries, cups games as well as continental competitions such as Champions League or Europa League. Particularly during summer months when players are expected to participate in international tournaments, this relentless regime becomes even tougher. 

Sports scientist Simon Brundish told CNN that players need at least five days of rest in between fixtures, which they simply are not getting. Per FIFPRO, superstar forwards Harry Kane and Kylian Mbappe played more than 70% of their matches in the 2022/23 season with less than five days recovery time. (Sam Joseph, CNN)

All these matches which are played so often contribute not only towards lowering standards but also causing physical and mental harm to players themselves. Players frequently have to change time zones and make numerous travels due to fixture congestion. Both the quantity and quality of sleep may be impacted by these disturbances, which may result in irregular sleep patterns. Lack of sleep can worsen fatigue, impair cognitive function, and weaken the immune system. Sleep is essential to the healing process. Additionally, the demanding schedule and the expectation to perform at a high level every time might exacerbate stress and anxiety. Fear of failing, negative thinking, low self-esteem, uncertainty, worry, lack of motivation, incapacity to handle difficulties, negative self-talk, self-evaluation, and overthinking are some of the factors that might contribute to performance anxiety. In addition to the stressful fixtures, players might have to balance managing their personal life, which would be another psychological load. Nowadays, the winner could very well be determined by which team can stay the healthiest the longest.

The World Players' Association (2018) claims that due of the unquenchable demand for their services, soccer players run the risk of experiencing physical harm and psychological stress. The existing system, which prioritizes business interests over the wellbeing of players, is unsustainable and may have negative long-term effects on athletes' health. For example, after the Euro 24 final, Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid/England national team player) said “It’s so tough with crazy schedules and then coming together for the end of the season for one last tournament. It’s difficult on the body — mentally and physically you are exhausted.”  Our finest football players are people, and as such, they ought to be treated with dignity and respect rather than being driven emotionally and physically insane in the sake of business. We have witnessed many instances where players have suffered major injuries, fatigue or mental breakdowns attributed to too much demand placed on them. These athletes dedicate their lives to bringing joy and excitement to millions of fans throughout the world, though we owe it to ourselves as individuals, clubs, associations, governments and societies at large to protect their interests. We need professional soccer not only as an economic activity but also as one that considers well-being of the people behind it.

Therefore, we would like FIFA and all football associations worldwide take immediate action in revising down professional soccer calendar which is exhaustive. This reassessment should include:

· Decrease the total number of matches: For prevention of overdoing, and to provide enough rest and recovery time for players, set a ceiling on the number of matches countable in a season.

· Prolong off-seasons: Allowing adequate time off commercial tours or other unimportant competitions to enable the players to relax, recover and refuel themselves.

· Make Sure Rests are Mandatory: There should be stipulated mandatory rests for athletes after international events, during these tournaments and before returning to their national leagues.

· Consider player wellbeing in your plans: Put player welfare first when planning games, competitions or even training sessions

· Encourage Support for Mental Health: Soccer players' mental health support systems to help them manage the stress involved with playing professionally.

By signing this petition, we all are determined in our efforts to improve the lives of soccer players around the world. FIFA and football institutions should regard these footballers’ fitness as utmost priority because it is these sportsmen who give us joy. It is our belief that by doing this, professional soccer will have a stronger base, be more entertaining to those playing while not endangering their health.
Join us in this worthy campaign. Help us sign this petition urging FIFA and other international football organizations to rethink and reduce the duration of professional soccer tournaments. Let’s unite so that we may show our favorite athletes the kind-heartedness, kindness, and support they deserve.