Spanish FA launches fertility support for female players and referees

The Royal Spanish Football Federation announced an agreement with the Tambre clinic to make fertility treatments available to female players and referees, describing the move as a way to increase choice over if and when to become mothers. The initiative covers assisted reproduction services including in vitro fertilisation and egg preservation. Under the arrangement, the federation will pay the full cost of egg-freezing for players who have been called up to Spain’s national teams on at least two occasions, with the partnership running through 2029. RFEF officials said the measure complements existing support for players who are mothers, such as provisions that allow children to accompany athletes on away trips, camps and tournaments. Reyes Bellver Alonso, the federation’s director of women’s football, framed the agreement as part of long-term progress in protecting women’s rights in the game, including contract protections and the removal of anti-pregnancy clauses. Spain internationals who attended the announcement welcomed the initiative as a practical tool to help reconcile the demands of professional sport and family planning. The policy has drawn mixed reactions outside football. Some labour and equality organisations cautioned that fertility assistance must not become a substitute for stronger workplace protections for mothers. Olympic medallist Ana Peleteiro publicly criticised the measure, while the CCOO trade union urged continued focus on work-life balance and safeguarding pregnancy during competition. The RFEF said the programme is intended to increase options for athletes rather than to discourage having children during an active career.