The new regulations introduce basic service standards for football agents and their clients, including a mandatory licensing system, the prohibition of multiple representation to avoid conflicts of interest, and the introduction of a cap on agent fees, all with the objective of reinforcing contractual stability, protecting the integrity of the transfer system and achieving greater financial transparency.

Major points:

  1. Return to a system of licensing after agents have passed a FIFA-organized exam. Any agent who was previously licensed will be exempted from taking the exam (but will have to apply for a license).
  2. Once licensed, agents will be able to operate worldwide.
  3. The obligation of continuous professional training will be implemented for agents.
  4. Annual license fee to be paid to FIFA.
  5. Written representation agreement with mandatory mentions (2 years maximum).
  6. Prohibition of multiple representations (only exception: representation of both the player/coach and the recruiting club).
  7. Special provisions for the representation of minor players.
  8. Payment of the agent’s commission directly by the client.
  9. Specific commission payment methods (after the close of the transfer market, by quarterly installments, in proportion to the sums collected by its client, viaFIFA Clearing House, etc.).
  10. Capping of commissions (3% – 5% – 10%).
  11. Obligations to disclose information and documents.
  12. Publication by FIFA of data relating to the activity of agents.
  13. Resolution of disputes with an international dimension: jurisdiction of the FIFA Football Tribunal’s Agents Chamber.
  14. Current Representation Agreements will remain valid (but cannot be extended) until they expire (with a deadline).
  15. Recognition of national licensing systems.
  16. Questions about the “transposition” of the provisions of the Regulation into national law.

 

Written byNir Inbar