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Athlete Contracts

What is the maximum duration of a sports contract?

Under FIFA rules and general sports practice, the maximum length of a contract is 5 years. Contracts longer than this may not be recognized by federations.

Can I play for the national team if my club refuses?

Yes, for official FIFA/international windows, clubs are obligated to release players. Refusal can lead to sanctions against the club.

Are "option years" in contracts binding?

Unilateral extension options in favor of the club are often contested. To be valid, they must be reasonable and usually accompanied by a salary increase.

Do I get paid during the off-season?

Yes, professional athlete employment contracts typically cover the full 12 months, including holidays and off-season, unless specifically signed for a shorter period.

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Athlete contracts constitute a fundamental part of sports law, regulating the relationship of a professional athlete with a club, national team, or sponsor. Unlike general "sports contract negotiations," this service focuses specifically on employment and service agreements, their drafting, and analysis. A professional athlete's career is short, so every contract must be maximally secure and profitable. Clubs often offer "standard" forms that actually unilaterally protect the club's interests. A qualified lawyer ensures that the contract complies with the Labor Code, regulations of sports federations, and protects the athlete's social and financial rights.

What Does the Athlete Contracts Service Cover?

The service includes a full legal audit and preparation of documentation:

  • Employment Contracts: Signing the main contract with the club, detailing salary, bonuses, terms, and conditions.
  • National Team Agreements: Regulating relationships with the national federation, insurance while playing for the national team, and per diem expenses.
  • Endorsement Contracts: Relationships with personal sponsors and usage of image rights.
  • Insurance Policies: Reviewing health and life insurance contracts to ensure full coverage of medical costs.
  • Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDA): Protecting the athlete's personal information.

Real-World Situations When You Need This Service

Athletes often face the following problems:

  • Imposition of Fines: The club fined a footballer for "disciplinary misconduct," which was vaguely defined in the contract. The lawyer appeals the legality of the fine.
  • Unilateral Contract Termination: The club terminated the contract due to the athlete's loss of form. The lawyer demands compensation for wrongful dismissal.
  • Non-payment of Bonus: The club refuses to pay a bonus because the athlete missed the last match due to injury. Interpretation of contract terms is needed.
  • Foreign Contract: An athlete is offered a contract in a foreign language. Translation and legal verification are necessary to avoid mistakes.

Georgian Legal Framework

Sports contracts are regulated by the "Labor Code of Georgia" (fixed-term contracts), the "Law of Georgia on Sport", and the "Civil Code". Regulations of relevant national and international federations (FIFA, FIBA, World Rugby), which establish minimum standards and mandatory clauses for contracts, take precedence. The lawyer ensures contract compliance with this multi-layered legal system.

Process: How a Specialist Works

Work on a contract involves:

  1. Analysis: Detailed study of the project proposed by the club.
  2. Amendment: Removing or changing clauses harmful to the athlete.
  3. Explanation: Explaining to the client in simple terms what they are signing and what obligations they are undertaking.

Why Legal.ge?

Legal.ge offers access to lawyers specializing in sports law. We understand that an athlete's career depends on physical abilities, and one legal mistake can cost you dearly. Our experts ensure your legal safety.

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Specialists for this service

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