Pedula: Italy s professional sports contract contract has been extended from 5 years to 8 years
According to Pedula, the period for signing professional sports contracts in Italy has been extended from 5 years to 8 years.
The new Act approved by the Council of Ministers stipulates that the maximum binding period of professional sports contracts can reach 8 years. The decree was strongly supported by Sports Minister Andrea Abdidi, whose goal was to modernize the sporting labor relations system. The new regulations replace the contract that has been in force since the historic Law No. 91 in 1981, with a maximum of five years.
This move will allow the club to lock in its registered players for longer periods, turning contracts into real assets. 8 years also means a longer amortization period, greater investment operation space and more stable guarantees for sports in financial statements.
Sports industry insiders analyzed: "With an 8-year contract term, it will be easier to see the lasting and stable connection between players and fans. This is not only a technology investment, but also an investment in character and image."
This may also enhance the attractiveness of Italian clubs to young talents or top players who need to be locked in. However, the real crux of the problem is now shifting to the international level. Article 17 of the current FIFA rules allows players to terminate their contracts by paying compensation after only 2 to 3 seasons, and their rules must be adjusted accordingly. Otherwise, there will be a risk of imbalance: the contract term is 8 years, but the contract can be terminated easily in just 2 years.
The current plan is: for players over 28 years old, the protection period is 4 years, and for under 28 years old, it is 5 years, or a formula linked to the percentage of the contract term is adopted.
The new decree can regain the core position of the club, and the power of the agents and players who seek to leave easily after a great season are weakened. Once it takes full effect, it will no longer be feasible to tear the contract by simply paying: there must be a legitimate reason, otherwise you will face suspension or even heavy fines.
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