- Players in Spain’s Liga F are going on strike due to an ongoing deadlock in negotiations to increase their wages.
- The unions are demanding a minimum wage of 23,000 euros annually for female footballers.
- Negotiations over pay and conditions started a year ago when Liga F became professionalized.
Players in Spain’s Liga F are set to go on strike as negotiations for higher wages have reached an impasse, according to statements by the unions representing women’s league players. Five unions, including AFE and Futpro, had previously called for a strike covering the first two rounds of fixtures last week. The unions continue to assert their demand for a minimum wage that reflects the talent of female footballers in Spain.
In a joint statement, the unions expressed their dissatisfaction with Liga F’s final financial proposal, deeming it unacceptable. They proposed a minimum wage starting at 23,000 euros ($24,600) annually, but Liga F refused to raise its offer beyond 20,000 euros ($21,400) per year. Currently, the minimum wage for Liga F players stands at 16,000 euros ($17,000) annually.
Despite reducing their initial wage proposal, the players remain resolute in their strike action. They voiced disappointment over having to strike despite their willingness to compromise. This wage disparity would mean female footballers earn less than match referees.
Negotiations concerning pay and conditions began a year ago when Liga F became professionalized. The recent discussions primarily revolved around the minimum wages of players.
The first round of fixtures was scheduled for September 8-10, with the second round set for September 15-17. Last season, a refereeing strike disrupted the opening week of Liga F matches. Eventually, the league agreed to increase match fees for referees, and the Spanish government pledged to contribute to a refereeing retirement fund.
Spanish women’s football gained significant attention following La Roja’s World Cup victory in August. However, this achievement was marred by an incident involving federation chief Luis Rubiales during the medal ceremony. Rubiales caused outrage worldwide when he forcibly kissed Spain midfielder Jenni Hermoso on the lips.
Despite mounting pressure, Rubiales refused to resign and instead criticized what he called “false feminism.” He asserted that the kiss was consensual, while Hermoso maintained it was not and described herself as the “victim of an assault.” FIFA provisionally suspended Rubiales for 90 days while investigating disciplinary action, and Hermoso filed a legal complaint against him at Spain’s top criminal court.
Currently, 81 Spain players are on strike against the women’s national team until changes are made in the federation’s leadership. Controversial coach Jorge Vilda was dismissed from his position on Tuesday.