Canada receives full FIFPRO member status, Angola becomes candidate member

• The two player associations elevated their membership with FIFPRO at the 2025 FIFPRO General Assembly in Lisbon, Portugal
• The announcement reflects their admirable work supporting players at domestic level
• To progress to a full FIFPRO member, unions must demonstrate themselves to be a player-driven organisation and fulfil strict criteria over several years

Two player associations have elevated their membership with FIFPRO, in recognition of their commendable work on the ground to support players at domestic level.

Canada has moved from candidate to full member, while Angola has gone from an observer to candidate member.

The announcement was made at the FIFPRO General Assembly in Lisbon, Portugal, on 18 November. The FIFPRO General Assembly is an annual event where player unions from around the globe convene to align on strategy and best practice for supporting players both on and off the pitch, with the presence of several stakeholders.

"Becoming an associate member is another huge step forward and will allow us to continue supporting players in the best way possible," said PFA President and Cavalry FC goalkeeper Marco Carducci.

To progress to a full FIFPRO member, player unions must demonstrate themselves to be a reliable, player-driven organisation and fulfil strict criteria over several years.

Established in 2020, PFA Canada has made impressive strides in a short time when it comes to representing the interests of players.

As well as being the recognised bargaining agent by Canadian Premier League players, and being recognised by the league, PFA Canada has demonstrated its commitment to supporting players' wellbeing by announcing a partnership with Onrise, a leading mental health service provider for elite athletes throughout North America.

"Being part of FIFPRO has been so vital for PFA Canada," said Carducci. "I think of the achievements we've been able to make – from supporting players with legal issues to implementing a league-wide mental health programme – and negotiating our first ever collective agreement with the Canadian Premier League. All those achievements could not have happened without the support of FIFPRO."