At the heart of modern football, the regulation of player status and transfers is a crucial pillar that governs the movements and careers of the main actors of this sport: the players. These rules, established by FIFA, are vital for maintaining fairness and transparency in global football. In this article, we’ll explore the different aspects of these regulations and understand their impact on both professional and amateur football.
Regulation of Player Status and Transfers
Instead of diving straight into the complexities, let’s start with the basics. In FIFA’s regulations, there are two types of players: the professional player and the amateur player. To be classified as a professional player, one must have a written contract with a club and receive remuneration for their football activities that exceed their actual expenses.
Transfer Periods, the Transfer Window
However, all transfers must take place during transfer periods, commonly known as the transfer window. These periods must be entered into FIFA’s TMS system at least 12 months before they take effect. If the periods have not been communicated in time by the member associations, FIFA will determine the periods instead of the associations.
Bridge Transfer
When discussing transfers, it’s essential to mention the concept of a bridge transfer. This type of transfer is identified as such when, for the same player, two consecutive transfers occur within 16 weeks. These transfers are often used to circumvent regulations or laws, or to defraud an individual or entity.
The International Transfer Certificate (ITC)
Furthermore, the ITC is a crucial tool for regulating international transfers. Since October 1, 2010, the ITC has been used to regulate these transfers through FIFA’s TMS software, where the same information must be entered by both clubs; otherwise, the transfer will be blocked.
Contractual Stability between Professionals and Clubs
Highlighting the importance of contractual stability, it’s noteworthy that the contract between a professional player and their club can only end in two ways: upon the expiration of its term or by mutual agreement. Unilateral termination is prohibited and results in penalties.
Conclusion: The Regulation of Player Status and Transfers
Overall, understanding the regulation of player status and transfers is essential for all football stakeholders. Whether you’re a player, a sports agent, or simply a fan, educating yourself on these rules is crucial. Feel free to contact us at +44 7387 615766 (Whats Apps) to discuss how our training can help you pass your FIFA examination and successfully navigate the complex world of football.
