FIFA Confirms Reduction Of International Windows To Three

FIFA Confirms Reduction Of International Windows To Three

Sampson Adedeji

World football governing body, FIFA, has officially confirmed a change in the international match calendar, reducing the number of international windows from four to three, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The decision, which was announced after extensive consultations with stakeholders, is aimed at minimizing disruption to the domestic football season across the world.

By consolidating fixtures into fewer windows, FIFA hopes to create a more balanced schedule that allows domestic leagues to run more smoothly while still ensuring adequate time for international competitions.

Previously, national teams had four windows spread across the year to host qualifiers, friendlies, and other official matches.

Under the new format, these games will now be played within three consolidated international breaks.

This move is expected to reduce the frequency of players travelling across continents, easing concerns over fatigue and fixture congestion.

A FIFA statement explained that the change was made “in the best interest of players, clubs, leagues, and fans worldwide,” stressing that the new calendar is designed to strike a balance between club and country commitments.

While some federations have expressed concerns about squeezing fixtures into fewer periods, FIFA maintains that the system will improve player welfare and increase the quality of both domestic and international football.

The revised international match calendar is set to take effect from the next football season.