American football pays men and women equally

In the United States, the United Soccer League approved an equal compensation scheme for men and women on the national team. A $24 million settlement with the Women’s National Team (WNT) has been agreed.

This also puts an end to the long-standing collective actions that many players have taken against American football.

turbulent conflict

The settlement ends one of the most turbulent conflicts in American football history. The US Soccer Federation agreed to pay players a lump sum in back wages.

In addition, an amount is also provided that players can withdraw at the end of their active career. There will also be a promise to pay equal wages to women and men on top national teams. This Agreement applies to official matches and tournaments as well as friendly matches.

Six years ago, five prominent players on the US women’s national team filed a lawsuit in court. Players noted the inequality of compensation. This initiative was followed up three years later with a class action lawsuit based on the fact that female soccer players are paid less than their male colleagues, while demonstrating superior performance on the field.

plural

Women’s soccer in the United States has always been more popular and successful than its men’s counterpart. The men’s national team failed to qualify for the World Championship four years ago. On the other hand, the same US women’s team will be crowned world champion a year later. Players like Megan Rapinoe, Alex Morgan or Hope Solo have become absolute celebrities.

The judge dismissed complaints of unequal pay for two years, but several players appealed. The agreement now puts an end to these measures.

The agreement still needs to be approved by the USWNT Players Association. Norway and the Netherlands, among other countries, have already promised to close the wage gap between men and women in professional football.

(LL)