SPECIAL PROVISIONS RELATING TO FEMALE PLAYERS
According to FIFA regulations, can the validity of a contract be made subject to a player being or becoming pregnant during its term, being on maternity leave, or utilizing rights related to maternity in general?
No, the validity of a contract cannot be made subject to such conditions.
According to FIFA regulations, what is the consequence if a club unilaterally terminates a contract on the grounds of a player being or becoming pregnant, being on maternity leave, or utilizing rights related to maternity in general?
The club will be deemed to have terminated the contract without just cause.
According to FIFA regulations, what presumption is made regarding the unilateral termination of a contract by a club during a pregnancy or maternity leave?
It shall be presumed, unless proven to the contrary, that the unilateral termination of a contract by a club during a pregnancy or maternity leave occurred as a result of a player being or becoming pregnant.
According to FIFA regulations, what sanctions shall be imposed on any club found to have unilaterally terminated a contract on the grounds of a player being or becoming pregnant, being on maternity leave?
Sporting sanctions in addition to the obligation to pay compensation
The club shall be banned from registering any new female players, either nationally or internationally, for two entire and consecutive registration periods.
What rights for female players are established in article 18quater of the FIFA Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players when they become pregnant?
To return to football activity after the completion of their maternity leave
To continue providing sporting services to their club (i.e. playing and training), following confirmation from their treating practitioner and an independent medical professional (chosen by agreement between the players and their clubs) that it is safe for them to do so
According to FIFA regulations, can associations set different registration periods for their competitions for male and female players?
Yes, associations can set different registration periods for male and female players.