Your Guide To FIFA’s Commentary On The RSTP

On 10 November 2021, FIFA published the 2021 Commentary (Commentary) on the Regulations on the Status and Transfer of the Players (Regulations). The last edition of the Commentary was published in 2007, and in the interim period several changes and additions have been made to the Regulations. The Commentary has historically been a significant guidance tool in understanding and interpreting the Regulations, and has been referred to by FIFA and the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in forming their opinion in relation to its clauses. The 2021 Commentary serves the same purpose for stakeholders.

This article summarises the Commentary’s common articles, annexes, and certain jurisprudence referred to therein, including: overdue payables; termination of a contract with/without just cause; female football players; employment of coaches; international transfers involving minors; training compensation; solidarity mechanism; and competence of FIFA. 1