PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad, Tuesday July 8, 2014, CMC – Trinidad and Tobago’s government says it will settle the outstanding US$1.3 million owed to 13 members of the 2006 World Cup squad, bringing an end to the long-running dispute between the players and the national football federation.
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar said Monday that while government was under no obligation to settle the impasse, it was mindful of the “long and protracted legal battles waged by these football heroes of ours” and also aware of the fact the national federation was not in a position to pay.
“On the eve of the FIFA World Cup semi-finals 2014 I think it is appropriate that we honour these players and settle their long outstanding battle for the payments due them,” Persaud-Bissessar told a media conference.
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“Let us move beyond the grievances and rekindle the spirit of togetherness and patriotism engendered by such a historic moment.
She continued: “As we gather to witness the excitement of the World Cup semi-finals and finals starting tomorrow (Tuesday) we can celebrate our own time knowing there are only pleasant memories and acknowledged heroes.”
The members of the squad argued they were never paid all the monies owed them coming out of the historic 2006 campaign in Germany, and sued the national federation. They gained a judgment in their favour for US$3 million but were only paid US$1.7 million of the amount.
Persad-Bissessar, who is flying to Brazil to witness the World Cup semi-finals, reminded the country the Soca Warriors had been a huge source of pride for all Trinidadians.
“They healed every national wound, bridged every divide, and brought us together across all boundaries, there were no political, social, religious or ethnic differences, we acclaimed ourselvesand embraced each other in a celebration of genuine patriotic pride,” she pointed out.
“The sense of belonging and togetherness engendered must remain as a constant reminder to us of what is possible when we acknowledge ourselves and remember that at the end of the day we all share this special place called Trinidad and Tobago.”
Former national player Brent Sancho, a member of that aggrieved World Cup squad, said he was “overwhelmed” by government’s decision to settle the outstanding amount.
Speaking on behalf of the players – seven of whom were present on Monday – Sancho described the outcome as a victory in the battle his teammates had waged over the last eight years.
“On behalf of those of us who have been fighting a long, tough legal battle to get our just due payment for our efforts at the FIFA World Cup, Germany 2006, this moment means more than any of us can describe,” Sancho said.
“While so many have turned their backs on us and ignored our pleas, we have finally been heard as is acknowledged here today.”
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Trinidad to settle players 2006 FIFA World Cup pay dispute
