Slovenian union SPINS announces player strike over employment status and tax reform

• The strike, which will affect all Slovenian First League matches, is scheduled to take place from 30 January to 1 February 2026
• At the heart of SPINS’ demands is the call for fair tax rules and a legal framework that recognises professional footballers and coaches as employees
• According to the union, the current system leaves players without adequate legal and social protection, and places Slovenian professional sport at a competitive disadvantage

The Professional Footballers' Union of Slovenia (SPINS) has announced a strike against the country’s government. The player strike, which is scheduled to take place from 30 January to 1 February 2026, will affect all Slovenian First League matches, according to the union.

The decision was taken unanimously by the SPINS executive board, with the consent of its membership, following a detailed strike notice outlining the union’s concerns.

At the centre of SPINS’ demands are the need for fair and competitive tax rules and a clear legal framework that allows professional footballers and coaches in Slovenia to be properly employed. According to the union, the current system leaves players without adequate legal and social protection, and places Slovenian professional sport at a competitive disadvantage

The union is also calling for changes to the law to ensure any special rules for professional sport can only be applied if they are agreed collectively between players and employers.

"This is a strike of interest and not directed at the clubs – instead, the action is aimed at the authorities responsible for shaping labour and tax policy in professional sport here in Slovenia," said SPINS President Dejan Stefanovic. "As a union, we’re seeking urgent reform from the Slovenian government to modernise legislation governing the employment status of athletes and coaches."

The strike notice has been formally submitted to the Football Association of Slovenia and the relevant government bodies. SPINS has reiterated its willingness to engage in dialogue at any time.

"We’re ready to sit down with government officials and all relevant stakeholders to contribute constructively to legislative reform and the transition towards fair and secure employment relationships for athletes and coaches," said Stefanovic. "At the same time, we’re continuing discussions with employers and representatives from other professional sports sectors facing similar challenges."