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Athlete Contract Negotiation

Can I negotiate my own contract without an agent?

Yes, legally you can represent yourself, but it is risky due to the complex legal clauses involved. A lawyer is recommended to review the terms before signing.

What happens if I get injured during the contract?

Standard professional contracts usually guarantee salary payments during injury periods, provided the injury occurred during sports activities. Terms vary by contract.

How are image rights handled in Georgia?

Unless specified otherwise, image rights belong to the individual. However, clubs often require players to assign certain rights for club marketing purposes in the contract.

Is a verbal agreement binding in sports?

While verbal contracts exist in civil law, sports regulations strictly require written contracts for registration with the federation. Relying on verbal promises is unsafe.

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Athlete contract negotiation is a fundamental legal service that defines an athlete's career trajectory and financial stability. In professional sports, a contract is not just an employment agreement; it is a complex legal document regulating the relationships between the athlete, the club, the federation, and sponsors. An incorrectly drafted contract can hinder an athlete's development for years, restrict their free movement (transfer), or cause the loss of due income. With the commercialization of the sports industry in Georgia, involving a qualified lawyer in the negotiation process—one who knows both local legislation and international sports regulations (FIFA, FIBA, IOC, etc.)—has become essential. Our service aims to secure the most profitable and protected conditions for the athlete.

What Does the Athlete Contract Negotiation Service Cover?

This service is comprehensive and covers the negotiation process from the initial stage to the final signing. Key components include:

  • Structuring Financial Terms: Detailed outlining of base salary, sign-on fees, performance bonuses (goals, matches, titles), and loyalty premiums.
  • Regulating Release Clauses: Setting an optimal buy-out amount that allows the athlete career advancement opportunities without making them a "hostage" of the club.
  • Image Rights: Agreeing on conditions for the commercial use of the athlete's name, image, and autograph with the club and sponsors.
  • Social and Medical Guarantees: Drafting obligations for maintaining compensation in case of injury, and covering treatment and rehabilitation costs.
  • Termination Conditions: Developing mechanisms for early contract termination in the presence of "Just Cause".

Real-World Situations When You Need This Service

Assistance from a professional lawyer is critical in the following scenarios:

  • First Professional Contract: A young, promising athlete signs their first agreement. Clubs often offer long-term, low-paying contracts with high buyout fees. A lawyer protects the athlete from "slave-like" conditions.
  • International Transfer: A Georgian athlete moves to a foreign club. It is necessary to harmonize the contract with foreign legislation, tax regimes, and visa regulations.
  • Contract Extension: A club wants to keep a successful athlete. This is the best time to increase remuneration and improve conditions, which requires professional negotiation.
  • Dispute over Remuneration: The club systematically delays salary payments. The lawyer uses this fact as leverage in negotiations so that the athlete receives free agent status or compensation.

Georgian Legal Framework

Sports contracts in Georgia are regulated by the "Labor Code of Georgia" and the "Law of Georgia on Sport". However, given the specifics of sports (e.g., fixed-term contracts, transfers), priority is often given to the regulations of the national and international federations of the relevant sport. For example, in football, the "Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players of the Georgian Football Federation" apply, which are based on FIFA standards. Contractual disputes may be heard in both common courts and sports arbitration, so correctly specifying the dispute resolution mechanism in the contract is vital.

Process: How a Specialist Works

The negotiation process is dynamic and includes:

  1. Analysis and Assessment: Determining the athlete's market value and conducting a legal audit of the club's offer.
  2. Strategy Development: Defining priorities (e.g., finances vs. playing time) and drawing "red lines".
  3. Active Negotiation: Preparing counter-offers and communicating directly with club representatives to improve terms.
  4. Signing and Registration: Vetting the final text and registering the contract with the relevant federation for legitimacy.

Why Legal.ge?

Legal.ge gives you access to lawyers with years of experience working in the sports industry. They understand not only dry legal norms but also the specifics and psychology of the sports business. With the help of our platform, you will be able to sign a contract that will become a solid foundation for your successful career.

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Specialists for this service

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