Lazio women to be compensated in pregnancy dispute

The controversy began at the end of the 2023–24 season, in which Gothberg made 29 appearances and helped the club secure promotion to the Italian top division.

He claimed that the club had entered into negotiations over a new contract and although it had not been officially signed, WhatsApp messages showed that basic terms had been agreed.

Before the deal was made official, Gothbert found out she was pregnant and informed the club – although she was not legally obliged to do so.

Lazio did not fulfill the contract in principle and later claimed that Gothberg no longer wished to continue playing at the club due to the breakdown of the relationship.

According to FIFA law, clubs must prove that pregnancy is not a reason for contract termination, while pregnancy information is considered confidential medical information.

“This case shows that FIFA’s maternity regulations are not just words on paper and that they provide real protection for players,” said Alexandra Gomez Bruinwood, legal director of global players’ union FIFPRO.

“The significance of this ruling goes beyond Maja Gothberg and confirms that clubs cannot simply walk away from an employment relationship, even if it is not fully formalized, once they learn that a player is pregnant.”

Gothberg received support and representation throughout the case from FIFPro and the Swedish players’ union Spelerforeningen.

In 2023Former Iceland captain Sara Bjork Gunnarsdottir won a claim against Lyon for failing to pay her full salary during pregnancy.

A FIFA tribunal has ordered French side Lyon to pay more than €82,000 (£72,000) in unpaid wages. FIFPRO called it a “landmark” case at the time.

Lyon were warned by FIFA that they would face a transfer ban if they did not pay within 45 days of the decision.