The problem derived from compulsory parental leave and childcare in professional sport

Abstract

Royal Decree-Law 6/2019 of 1 March introduced important changes regarding maternity and paternity protection by unifying leave for both parents. Consequently, the duration of the former paternity leave has been increased to match maternity leave. One of the most important changes regarding this unification is that the former paternity leave becomes a suspension of employment contract, forcing both parents to enjoy a part of the leave simultaneously after the birth, fostering or adoption of the child. Although we are facing an obvious step towards actual equality, the regulations may have serious consequences in the field of professional sport.