Women join fight against plans to make World Cups biennial events

FIFA'S plans for a biennial World Cup would have a “profoundly detrimental” impact on the women's game and fundamentally alter its development, Europe's top women's leagues and European governing body UEFA said on Monday.

In a joint statement, the organizations criticized the consultation process FIFA employed while conducting a feasibility study into holding the men's and women's World Cup on a biennial basis.

The organizations also expressed concerns about the tournament adding to an already congested international calendar, hampering the visibility of women's soccer and resulting in players being overworked.

“The fast-paced nature of the (so far) very selective consultation process and all-but agreed proposals have not allowed a careful reflection on what is in the best interests of ... women's football or adequately assessed the possible irreversible consequences such a change might entail,” the statement said.

“Our reservations centre on our desire for a balanced and inclusive global development that gives women and girls the best conditions to play the most beloved game at all levels and in every society.”

The statement was co-signed by the European Club Association and women's leagues from England, Germany, Italy, Finland, Romania, Sweden, Switzerland and the Netherlands.

The ECA, which represents 234 European clubs, said last month a biennial World Cup would lead to a “direct and destructive impact on the club game,” while UEFA urged FIFA to engage in “genuine consultation” over the calendar.

Spectators may be invited to attend Beijing 2022 Olympic test events, organizers said on Monday, in a possible indication of what to expect at next year's Winter Games.

Beijing 2022 officials, however, declined to give further details on the plans for spectators.

“If conditions allow, we will arrange for spectators to attend certain competitions,” said Yao Hui, Director of Beijing 2022's Venue Management Department, referring to test events starting this week at the National Speed Skating Oval and at eight more Olympic venues before the end of the year.

Foreigners taking part in the test events must have had a COVID -19 vaccine and on arrival in China must stick to rules such as limiting their movements to competition and training venues.

The presence of more than 2,000 international participants presents a “massive test” for organizers, said Huang Chun, Deputy Director of Beijing 2022's COVID -19 Prevention and Control Office.

The Games start on Feb. 4.