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Youth Player Contracts

Can a 15-year-old sign a 5-year contract?

No. Under FIFA regulations, players under 18 can sign contracts for a maximum of 3 years. Any clause specifying a longer duration is not binding.

Do parents need to sign the contract?

Yes, in Georgia, contracts with minors are only valid if signed by a legal representative (parent or guardian) alongside the minor.

What if my child wants to quit the academy?

It depends on the agreement signed. While forced labor is illegal, the academy may demand training compensation if the child moves to another club, as per federation rules.

Can an agent represent my child?

Yes, but you (the parents) must sign the representation contract. Also, agents cannot charge fees for minors' transfers unless it's their first pro contract.

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Youth player contracts represent one of the most sensitive and strictly regulated areas of sports law. International federations (especially FIFA) and Georgian legislation grant special protection to minors to prevent their exploitation. A young player's first professional contract, an academy enrollment agreement, or an international transfer require knowledge not only of sports law but also of civil and family law (parental consent, guardianship). A wrong legal step can lead to a transfer being blocked, the club being fined, and the young talent's career being hindered. Our service helps parents, academies, and agents act in the best interests of the child.

What Does the Youth Player Contracts Service Cover?

Our service ensures legal protection at the initial stage of a career:

  • First Professional Contract: Preparing a contract for an athlete aged 16-18. By law, the term of such a contract cannot exceed 3 years.
  • Academy Agreements: Contracts with football/sports schools outlining education, training, and living conditions.
  • International Transfer (Article 19): Preparing legal justification for FIFA to allow a minor's transfer to a foreign club (e.g., parents moving for non-sporting reasons).
  • Scholarships and Grants: Agreements on educational funding.
  • Parental/Guardian Consent: Preparing legally sound consent documents.

Real-World Situations When You Need This Service

Young athletes and their parents often face the following problems:

  • Leaving the Academy: A parent wants to move the child to another school, but the academy demands high compensation. The lawyer checks the legality of the demand.
  • Agent Pressure: An agent offers parents a suspicious contract that binds the child for many years. Risk assessment is needed.
  • Injury and Treatment: The academy refuses to pay for the treatment of an injury sustained during training. The lawyer defends the child's right to health.
  • Moving Abroad: A 17-year-old footballer is invited by a European club. Transfer is impossible without FIFA permission. The lawyer prepares the case for the FIFA Sub-Committee.

Georgian Legal Framework

Child labor is regulated by the "Labor Code of Georgia" (restrictions on working hours, heavy work) and the "Code on the Rights of the Child". In sports, FIFA Regulations (Article 19 and 19bis) apply, prohibiting international transfers of minors with few exceptions. Any legal document requires the signature of a legal representative (parent). Signing an employment contract with a child under 14 is permissible only for sports, arts, and cultural activities, provided it does not hinder their education and development.

Process: How a Specialist Works

Protecting a minor's interests implies:

  1. Consultation: Informing parents about the child's rights and the club's obligations.
  2. Documentation: Filling out contracts and application forms for federations.
  3. Monitoring: Ensuring the club fulfills its obligations (e.g., facilitating education).

Why Legal.ge?

Legal.ge offers access to lawyers specializing in children's rights and sports law. A young talent's career is fragile — one wrong contract can be decisive. We will help ensure that your child's sporting future is protected and promising.

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Specialists for this service

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