10.01.2024 | Football in my DNA
In a historic move, FIFPRO, the global union for professional footballers, has joined forces with the Footballers and Allied Workers Union of Zambia (FAWUZ) to sign a groundbreaking four-year image rights collective rights agreement with the Copper Queens, the national women's football team set to compete in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The $100,000 deal marks a significant milestone, not only in the financial empowerment of the players but also in the recognition of their contributions to Zambian football.
Key Points:
Collective Rights Agreement:
FIFPRO and FAWUZ have formalized a four-year collective rights agreement worth $100,000 with the Copper Queens, granting the union the right to utilize the players' image rights for permitted purposes until the next FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2027.
Annual Disbursement:
As part of the agreement, FIFPRO will disburse $25,000 annually to FAWUZ for distribution among the players. This commendable initiative aims to support the financial well-being of the athletes, including notable figures like vice-captain Grace Chanda and goalkeeper Hazel Nali.
Landmark Payout for Zambian Football:
The first-ever payout of this nature for a national team in Zambia, the $100,000 landmark deal underscores the commitment of FAWUZ and FIFPRO to uplift the players and revolutionize the financial landscape of women's football in the country.
FAZ Acknowledges the Milestone:
At the cheque presentation ceremony, Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) general secretary, Andrew Kamanga, expressed gratitude to FIFPRO and FAWUZ, recognizing the unprecedented nature of the payout. The agreement symbolizes a commitment to the players' welfare and their collective licensing agreement.
FAWUZ President Calls it Historic:
FAWUZ president, Sandras Kumwenda, hailed the agreement as historic, emphasizing its significance in supporting the Women's National Team. He called for continued support from sponsors and partners to propel the development of women's football to new heights.
Acknowledgment from Players:
Copper Queens vice-captain Grace Chanda expressed her gratitude, acknowledging FIFPRO and FAWUZ for delivering on their commitment. The players' appreciation highlights the impact of such initiatives on their lives and the broader development of women's football in Zambia.
The FIFPRO and FAWUZ collaboration with the Copper Queens marks a paradigm shift in the recognition and support of women athletes in Zambia. Beyond the financial infusion, this groundbreaking agreement sets a precedent for future partnerships, emphasizing the importance of empowering athletes and fostering the growth of women's football on the global stage. The beneficiaries, including goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and strikers, represent a diverse group of talented individuals who are now poised to make history both on and off the field. As the first beneficiaries of this unprecedented agreement, the Copper Queens are not just athletes but pioneers in the transformative journey of women's football in Zambia. #CopperQueens #FIFPRO #WomenInFootball #EmpoweringAthletes
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