The Spanish Footballers Association (AFE) approved its departure from the international union FIFPRO and announced that it will lead the creation of a new global body for the representation of footballers. The decision was supported by 99.8% of the votes at the Extraordinary General Assembly.
The initiative was promoted by the Board of Directors chaired by David Aganzo, who was at the helm of the international organization that is now chaired by Argentine Sergio Marchi between November 2021 and May 2024. AFE justified the split due to "FIFPRO's absolute lack of transparency, in addition to its nonexistent dialogue with institutions of an international scope, something that harms male and female footballers".
The Spanish union stated in advance that it will lead the creation of a new global entity "with the aim of strengthening dialogue with global sports stakeholders" and reinforcing the representation of male and female players. On his social media accounts, Aganzo described the measure as "a very important step for the defense of footballers' rights, not only in Spain but throughout the world" and emphasized the need for greater "transparency and unity" in the international structure.
