Victory for Player Rights – FPSD-13416
Another victory achieved in a contractual dispute: FPSD-13416. This outcome affirms the enforceability of settlement agreements and reinforces the rule of law in the football industry. The case involved a post-termination agreement between the player and the Club, which stipulated a two-part financial settlement. Although the Club honored the first instalment, it failed to pay the second amount by the agreed deadline. Our firm engaged in good-faith communication in an effort to resolve the matter informally. However, the Club’s continued non-compliance required formal legal action.
Case Strategy in This Contractual Dispute
We brought the claim under Article 12bis of the FIFA Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players, which addresses overdue payables. Crucially, we also invoked a penalty clause included in the settlement agreement—an important deterrent against contractual breaches. Our submission detailed the Club’s failure to meet its obligations and presented conclusive documentary evidence of the default.
FIFA Tribunal’s Ruling
The FIFA Football Tribunal fully upheld our client’s claim and issued an order requiring the Club to Pay the outstanding instalment in full and condemn to pay the settled additional contractual penalty. This ruling sends a clear message: clubs must respect legally binding agreements, and failure to do so will result in swift regulatory enforcement.
Why is This Important?
This case not only vindicates our client’s rights but also sets a precedent for other professional footballers. It demonstrates that even when negotiations fail, players can rely on FIFA’s legal framework to seek redress. It also underscores the importance of well-drafted agreements that include enforceable penalty clauses—an area in which our firm provides specialized guidance.
Are you facing contractual disputes or unpaid settlements?
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