Former France international Lassana Diarra has revived his long-standing legal dispute against FIFA and the Royal Belgian Football Association (RBFA), seeking £56 million in compensation. The controversy stems from rules deemed unlawful by the European Court of Justice (CJEU), which ruled that FIFA’s regulations impeded the free movement of professional footballers.

A Decade-Long Battle

Diarra’s troubles began in 2014 when his contract with Lokomotiv Moscow was terminated. In 2015, FIFA blocked his transfer to Belgian side Charleroi by refusing to issue an international transfer certificate (ITC). The CJEU later ruled this move violated EU laws protecting workers’ freedom of movement. Now 40, Diarra claims the decision damaged his career and is demanding accountability.

FIFA’s Response

FIFA introduced interim reforms to its transfer regulations following the CJEU ruling but Diarra argues these changes do not comply with the court’s strict requirements. The organization has responded cautiously, stating it is working with stakeholders to amend its regulations in line with the CJEU’s guidance.

Support from Football Unions

Diarra has received backing from footballers’ unions FifPro, FifPro Europe, and France’s UNFP. Dutch group Justice for Players (JFP) has also launched a class-action lawsuit against FIFA and several European football associations, claiming players have lost significant income due to restrictive transfer rules. “We stand firmly alongside Mr. Diarra,” JFP said in a statement.

The Future of the Case

The outcome of Diarra’s case could have significant implications for FIFA’s transfer regulations and the rights of footballers. As the legal battle continues, the football world watches with bated breath.