Rugby is a national sport in Georgia, and the international demand for Georgian rugby players is constantly growing. The French TOP 14, PRO D2, English Premiership, and Japan League One are the leagues where Georgian legionnaires actively compete. Rugby player contracts have unique specifics that differ from other team sports. Primarily, this involves the high intensity of physical contact and injury risk, requiring special medical and insurance clauses in the contract. Additionally, rugby clubs often use specific bonus systems (match sheet appearance, minute-based pay) and strict disciplinary regulations. Qualified legal assistance is essential for a rugby player to receive fair compensation and be protected from the financial risks of premature career termination.
What Does the Rugby Contract Negotiation Service Cover?
Our service considers rugby specifics and includes:
- Medical Joker Contracts: Signing temporary contracts when a player replaces an injured player. It is important to outline conditions for converting such a contract into a permanent one.
- Insurance Coverage: Including an obligation in the contract for the club to provide full medical insurance covering surgeries and rehabilitation, as well as compensation for forced career termination.
- Release Clauses: Guaranteeing the player's release for national team duty (Regulation 9) and participation in the World Cup so that the club cannot hinder them from playing for the national team.
- JIFF Status (France): Legal consultation regarding obtaining JIFF (Joueurs Issus des Filières de Formation) status for young rugby players in France, which increases their market value.
- Disciplinary Disputes: Appealing red cards and suspensions in EPCR and World Rugby disciplinary committees.
Real-World Situations When You Need This Service
Rugby players often face the following challenges:
- Injury and Contract Termination: A player suffers a severe injury (e.g., torn ACL), and the club tries to terminate the contract citing "physical incapacity." The lawyer defends the player's right to retain their salary.
- Refusal to Release for National Team: A foreign club pressures the player not to join the national team camp. The lawyer uses World Rugby regulations to protect the player.
- Salary Reduction: The club demands a salary cut due to relegation or a financial crisis. Negotiation is needed to maintain terms.
- Agent Commission: Dispute with an agent demanding disproportionately high commission or dual commission (from both club and player).
Georgian Legal Framework
In Georgia, rugby is regulated by the "Law of Georgia on Sport" and the regulations of the Georgian Rugby Union (SRU). At the international level, World Rugby Regulations (especially Regulation 9 - Availability of Players) are paramount. For Georgian players in France (who constitute the majority), the rules of the LNR (Ligue Nationale de Rugby) and the French Labor Code are relevant. Our lawyers possess competence in both Georgian and international rugby law.
Process: How a Specialist Works
Protecting a rugby player's interests involves:
- Risk Assessment: Deep analysis of medical and insurance clauses in the contract.
- Negotiation: Optimizing the bonus system (playing time, tries).
- Advocacy: Attending disciplinary hearings and defending the player to reduce suspension periods.
Why Legal.ge?
Lawyers featured on Legal.ge collaborate with leading Georgian legionnaires and know the specifics of the rugby world. Rugby is a gentlemen's game, but strict business rules often apply in contracts. We will help ensure that your dedication on the field is properly valued financially and legally.
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