FIFPRO is launching a Global Player Council to strengthen the role of professional footballers in shaping their industry at an international level.

The Global Player Council (GPC) will reinforce the mandate of FIFPRO and its 65 affiliated national player associations to protect the interests of players around the world and safeguard their rights.

While national player associations are the key driver of the collective voice of footballers, adding an international council strengthens our capacity to address cross-border issues as globalization rapidly influences football.

The GPC will allow active players to comment on, discuss and influence global regulations, trends and the strategic development of football worldwide.

It will also provide the opportunity for council members to drive initiatives linked to player health and personal development, among other matters off the pitch.

The GPC’s members will evolve over time; FIFPRO and national player associations are in discussion with other players about joining.

The players have direct ownership of the GPC, which will meet at least twice a year. The GPC as an integral part of FIFPRO will work continuously with FIFPRO on key topics and initiatives.

“Together with these players we will amplify the voice of footballers worldwide. As professional football develops globally at a rapid pace this new channel is more important than ever,” FIFPRO General Secretary Jonas Baer-Hoffman said. “We are excited by the enthusiasm of so many players, who are leaders on and off the pitch, to be part of the Global Player Council.

“We are looking forward to giving this group of players a platform to share and use their considerable experience on a wide range of key issues that impact both them and their fellow professionals.”