How are football contract disputes resolved?
Contract disputes between a club and a player with an international dimension go to the Dispute Resolution Chamber of FIFA's Football Tribunal, unless the contract chose a FIFA-recognised national chamber instead. Claims must be brought within two years, and unpaid wages earn 8 per cent interest a year if requested. Civil courts remain open too.
On this page
Who decides
Under article 22 of FIFA's Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players, FIFA can hear employment disputes between a club and a player with an international dimension, for example a foreign player at a club. The Dispute Resolution Chamber of the Football Tribunal decides them (article 23).
The two sides can instead choose a national dispute resolution chamber recognised by FIFA. That choice must be exclusive and written into the contract or a collective agreement. Either side can still go to a civil court.
Time limits and interest
- The Football Tribunal will not hear a case more than two years after the event that caused it.
- On overdue pay, it awards 8 per cent interest a year if the claimant asks for it, unless the contract sets a rate.
Before you claim
- Keep the contract, payslips, bank statements and messages.
- Put the club in default in writing, with a deadline.
- Check whether your contract names a national chamber.
- Take advice from a lawyer or your players' union.
Disputes between clubs
FIFA also hears disputes over training compensation and solidarity payments, and other disputes between clubs of different associations.
You should not need an agent to be seen.
Paste your Transfermarkt link and a highlights video. Once a person approves it, your profile builds itself, and you can apply to open requests.
Register free as a playerAlready registered? Sign in
Questions people also ask
Does it cost money to bring a claim to FIFA?
Procedures are set out in FIFA's Procedural Rules Governing the Football Tribunal. Check the current rules on costs before you file.
Can a coach use the same route?
Yes. Employment disputes between a club and a coach with an international dimension go to the Players' Status Chamber.