FIFA to Revise Rules After EU Court Decision

Following a landmark decision by the European Court of Justice regarding FIFA's transfer regulations, FIFA has announced plans to engage with global stakeholders to revise its rules. The court found certain aspects of FIFA's regulations, particularly those related to contract termination and compensation, to be in violation of European Union laws on competition and freedom of movement. This ruling stems from the case of former player Lassana Diarra, who argued that FIFA's rules unjustly restricted his ability to find a new club after his contract with Lokomotiv Moscow was terminated. FIFA's upcoming discussions will include representatives from clubs, leagues, national soccer federations, and the global players' union FIFPRO. The focus will primarily be on player-club disputes, specifically when contracts are terminated without just cause, as outlined in article 17 of the transfer regulations. While some speculate that these changes could disrupt the global transfer market, FIFA sees the opportunity to refine only specific parts of its regulatory framework.