The Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) on Monday issued a statement addressing recent public information and clarifying its stance regarding contractual matters with its employees, especially the players of the FIFA Women’s World Cup (FWWC) campaign.
The JFF emphasizes its commitment to adhering to contractual procedures and respecting its obligations and expresses gratitude for the achievements of the Women’s National Team (Reggae Girlz) during the historic FIFA Women’s World Cup campaign. Despite financial constraints, the JFF, with support from sponsors, spent close to US$4 million on the campaign, acknowledging the significance of football for social transformation in Jamaica.
Regarding the allegations in the public domain, the JFF explains that they had committed to settling all debts from the 2022 contract once they received prize money from FIFA. They said that the only outstanding payment, representing 20 per cent of the JFF prize money from the 2023 Women’s World Cup, was delayed because the contract did not specify how this amount should be divided among the players.
There is pending reimbursement from FIFA
The local governing body asserts that they reached out to players for input but received no response, leading to the adoption of a formula to expedite the process.
The JFF highlights that there is pending reimbursement from FIFA, and players are demanding 20 per cent of the full US$1.8 million, while the JFF can only pay based on the received US$1.2 million. Discussions with FIFA are ongoing to resolve this issue promptly.
Regarding coaching staff and travel arrangements, the JFF clarifies that the contract does not require the disclosure of coaching staff names before players’ availability is confirmed. The JFF also explains that it has historically facilitated upgrades to travel categories and sought premium economy accommodations when possible.
JFF suspends selection of players indefinitely
In response to the situation, the JFF has suspended the selection of players indefinitely, citing the need to follow the grievance procedure outlined in the contract to achieve a final resolution.
The JFF reiterates its commitment to the women’s program and calls on Jamaica to support the team in their upcoming qualifiers for the Women’s Gold Cup tournament in 2024, pledging to provide the necessary support for success.
A much-weakened team headed by interim head coach Xavier Gilbert is now in Panama, ahead of Wednesday’s game.
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