The implementation of FIFA’s new agent regulations in England is being delayed by the Football Association (FA).
The introduction of the new rules has been pushed back until a tribunal provides its decision to arbitration proceedings opened by four agencies to challenge the regulations. The decision is expected by November 30.
The new regulations have been introduced by FIFA to raise “professional and ethical standards” and had been set to come into play in England on October 1. They include agents having to pass an exam if they are to continue to operate, as well as changes to rules concerning the representation of multiple clients in a transaction and the representation of minors and the capping of agent fees.
In June, agencies CAA Base, Wasserman, Stellar and ARETE commenced proceedings to challenge their introduction. These proceedings have now concluded and the delivery of the decision will determine the length of the delay.
An FA statement read: “The FA agrees that the implementation date of the National Football Agent Regulations (to the extent upheld by the Tribunal) will be delayed until the earlier of (a) 30 November 2023 or (b) the handing-down of the Tribunal’s award.
“Until such time, The FA’s Working With Intermediaries Regulations will remain in force. The FA will provide an update following its receipt of the Tribunal’s decision.”
Agents across Europe have taken exception to parts of the new rules and the compulsory FIFA exam has been a particular sticking point.
Agents who sat an exam in Birmingham this month complained of technical difficulties that meant many were unable to complete it. Only 52 per cent passed the first sitting in March.
Those who did not pass September’s exam, which comprises 20 multiple-choice questions to be answered in an hour and with a 75 per cent pass mark, will be given the opportunity to re-sit remotely. The next chance to re-sit had been scheduled for May.
The Association of Football Agents (AFA) had written to the FA in August demanding they grant them more time to respond to a consultation on the new regulations and highlighted the commission cap as a particular area of concern.
FIFA are also facing several legal challenges to the new rules.
The European Football Agents Association lost their case against FIFA in the Netherlands Central Court in May, having argued that they had no authority to regulate the industry.
The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) also dismissed a case lodged by the Professional Football Agents Association, but in Germany a temporary injunction was granted preventing the regulations being implemented, pending a decision by the European Court of Justice.
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(Photo: John Walton/PA Images via Getty Images)
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