The UEFA announced this Monday that it will introduce for the first time a framework of minimum standards for women’s national teams, including that there be an agreement between players and their federation on remuneration, maternity, pregnancy and anti-discrimination policies.

The organization explained that it will help its member federations to develop implementation plans for these standards adapted to their specific challenges and that it will have the support of the “HatTrick Incentive Program”with a total fund of 22 million euros available to national federations until 2028 (100,000 euros per national federation and year).

The seven requirements also include a full-time head coach with a UEFA Pro license (or equivalent qualification) available from the national association; at least one team doctor and two physiotherapists at all matches and training sessions and high-quality accommodation close to the training or match venues.

Each federation will receive 100,000 euros the first year

Of the 100,000 euros annually, 70,000 will be allocated to the application of sporting and technical provisions and 30,000 to good governance provisions.

In the first season, each national association will receive €100,000, regardless of its level of implementation, subject to the completion of a quality assurance self-assessment and a form reporting on the use of these funds.

In the second, third and fourth seasons the amount allocated will depend on the level of application of the minimum standards, according to the evaluation made by the UEFA administration.

“UEFA remains fully dedicated to empowering female players”

The president of UEFA, Alexander Ceferinstated that the “announcement marks the culmination of the five-year strategy for women’s football”, following its unanimous approval by the Executive Committee last June, after an extensive consultation process with players, coaches and FIFPRO Europe.

The General Director of UEFA for women’s football, the German Nadine Kesslerconsidered that this project “represents a starting point to raise the bar in all women’s national teams” and that “for the players to perform and bring success to their teams it is absolutely vital that they have the best possible conditions on and off the field “.

Representing the 35 captains consulted to establish the minimum standards, the Northern Irish Marissa Callaghan commented that “having a platform to debate with other players and coaches has been a positive and enriching experience.”

Source: Eitb

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