FIFA faces renewed legal action from Lassana Diarra as he re-initiates his damages claim
Lassana Diarra, a former France midfielder who has played for Arsenal, Chelsea, and Real Madrid, is once again taking on FIFA and the Belgian Football Association in a legal battle that has been ongoing since 2014. The legal proceedings have been restarted in Belgium, with Diarra seeking €65 million (US$75.95 million) in damages.
The dispute centres around breaches of EU laws by FIFA's rules. Diarra's case arose after his contract with Lokomotiv Moscow was terminated, and subsequent FIFA transfer rules prevented him from registering to play with Belgian club Royal Charleroi without compensation to Lokomotiv.
In October 2020, the European Court of Justice (CJEU) ruled that FIFA's rules breached EU laws. Following this ruling, FIFA has amended its transfer regulations, adopting an interim framework on the calculation of compensation payable and burden of proof if there is a breach of contract.
Despite these changes, Diarra's legal team filed a €65 million gross (€35 million net) compensation claim for damages throughout his career, targeting both FIFA and the Belgian Football Association. The Belgian soccer association did not respond to a request for comment regarding Diarra's case.
Diarra's lawsuit is supported by the global players’ union FIFPRO and its European and French divisions. Additionally, a Dutch soccer players' group announced earlier this month that it is preparing a Europe-wide class action claim against FIFA and other associations, seeking compensation over alleged loss of income due to restrictive transfer rules.
It is important to note that FIFA did not comment on the ongoing legal matter regarding Diarra's case. However, the organization has stated that it has been working with its stakeholders to amend its regulations following the guidance offered by the CJEU.
Diarra stated that he is fighting this battle not just for himself, but also for upcoming, lesser-known players who may not have the means to challenge FIFA before real judges. He waited a few months before restarting proceedings in Belgium, hoping for an amicable settlement from FIFA and the Belgian association, which did not occur.
As the legal proceedings continue in Belgium, Diarra's case serves as a significant example of the ongoing efforts to challenge FIFA's transfer regulations and ensure compliance with EU labor and competition laws. No details were given about any potential settlement or resolution in Diarra's case.
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