Investment Rating - The report does not provide a specific investment rating for the industry Core Insights - The report emphasizes the importance of ethical recruitment practices in the sports industry, particularly focusing on transparency, fairness, and the protection of minors [1][2][3] Summary by Relevant Sections Transparency and Honesty - Full disclosure of financial arrangements is crucial, including clear communication of fees, commission structures, and contract terms [4] - Ensuring that players and their families understand long-term financial commitments and implications is essential [5] Accurate Presentation of Career Opportunities - Avoid exaggerating career prospects or over-promising outcomes to attract clients [10] - Encourage participants and their families to consider career or educational plans outside of sports [10] Protection of Minors - Compliance with regulations regarding minors is mandatory, ensuring guardians are fully informed of rights, responsibilities, and risks [8][9] - Regular welfare checks and discussions about career progress and concerns are necessary [12] Compliance and Responsibility - Adherence to FIFA regulations and ensuring that clubs have protective policies in place is vital [15][16] - Maintaining a focus on the player's best interests, even in the face of potential conflicts of interest, is critical [19][20] Fairness and Non-Discrimination - Recruitment practices should be based solely on talent and potential, without bias related to race, nationality, or gender [22][23] - Equal opportunities must be provided to all participants, promoting gender equality in support and resources [24] Reporting Unethical Behavior - Any observed unethical behavior should be reported to FIFA or relevant associations, with documentation of all incidents [25] Supporting Vulnerable Groups - Measures should be taken to assist vulnerable participants in navigating the recruitment process, including connecting them with support programs [26] Empowering Minors and Family Involvement - Respecting the autonomy of minors by involving them in decision-making processes is essential [27] - Maintaining open communication with families regarding their children's progress and any changes in representation agreements is important [28] Best Practices and Due Diligence - Conducting background checks on third parties associated with players is necessary to ensure ethical standards are upheld [29][30] - Providing support for cultural adaptation and relocation logistics is crucial for international placements [31][32] Balanced Development - Encouraging participants to prioritize education and personal well-being while managing time effectively between sports and other pursuits is vital [35][36]

Investment Rating - The report does not provide a specific investment rating for the industry Core Insights - The FIFA Electronic Performance and Tracking Systems (EPTS) quality program was launched in 2017 to ensure that wearable tracking systems used in football do not pose a danger to players [2] - A new performance standard was introduced in 2019 to verify the reliability and accuracy of electronic tracking systems, providing guidance for event organizers when appointing tracking system suppliers [4] - The certification process for EPTS technology involves multiple steps, including impact assessment testing, performance testing, and obtaining product liability insurance [7][15] Summary by Sections Introduction - The FIFA EPTS quality program aims to ensure safety in wearable tracking systems used in football matches, with testing standards based on medical and mechanical assessments [2] Performance Standards - The introduction of the FIFA quality standard in 2019 aimed to validate the reliability and accuracy of electronic tracking systems, enhancing transparency for end-users [4] Certification Process - The certification process for EPTS involves several steps, including: - Step 1: Request for testing by submitting company and product details to FIFA [9] - Step 2: Impact assessment testing and WFSGI commitment for wearable devices [11][14] - Step 3: Proof of product liability insurance is mandatory for all EPTS providers [15] - Step 4: Performance testing organized by FIFA and certified testing institutions [17] - Step 5: Obtaining FIFA certification through either a basic or standard license agreement [24][26] Testing and Reporting - Certified testing institutions are responsible for conducting tests and providing final reports to FIFA [13] - Performance testing results can lead to FIFA quality certification, which is valid for four years and published on FIFA's website [22][28]

Investment Rating - The report does not provide a specific investment rating for the industry Core Insights - The FIFA Quality Programme for Electronic Performance and Tracking Systems (EPTS) aims to standardize performance evaluations of EPTS in the football industry, focusing on speed and position output data [5] - The program has expanded to include new performance metrics such as acceleration, load, and technical indicators, which are not eligible for certification in 2025 but can be included in reports with mutual agreement [5] - The testing methodology relies on three core systems: 3-D motion capture (VICON), Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs), and total station measurements to assess EPTS performance metrics [6][7][8] - The report outlines a comprehensive testing protocol that includes various tasks for players, such as maximum sprints, small-sided games, and ball tracking exercises [26][30][31] Summary by Sections Introduction - The FIFA has developed a quality program for EPTS that includes standardized performance evaluations and certification based on quality results [5] Testing Protocol - Testing will occur on FIFA-regulated football fields, with specific dimensions and setups for capturing player and ball data [10][12] - A 40 x 30 meter area will be designated for player and ball tasks, utilizing VICON 3-D motion capture systems [12] - The testing protocol includes various player tracking tasks to measure speed, position, acceleration, and load metrics [26][28][30] Data Analysis - Providers must submit data in a specific format, and the report details the requirements for different metrics such as position, speed, acceleration, and load [45][48][49] - The report emphasizes the importance of data synchronization and statistical analysis to ensure accuracy in performance tracking [56][58] New Metrics - The report introduces new metrics for 2025, including acceleration evaluation and load assessment, which will not be part of the certification process but can be used for internal assessments by providers [71][81]

Investment Rating - The report does not provide a specific investment rating for the industry or companies involved Core Insights - The case revolves around the ownership of CF Pachuca and Club León in relation to the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 regulations, particularly concerning multi-club ownership [6][20] - Grupo Pachuca asserts that both clubs operate independently, with separate financial structures and decision-making processes, and emphasizes their commitment to comply with FIFA regulations [4][6][22] - FIFA's new regulations introduced restrictions on multi-club ownership, leading to concerns about the eligibility of both clubs to participate in the tournament [30][34] Summary by Sections Introduction - The case involves CF Pachuca and Club León, both affiliated with the Mexican Football Association and competing in Liga MX [6] Facts of the Case - Grupo Pachuca clarified its operational independence and financial separation between Pachuca and León in a letter to FIFA [4][6] - FIFA's regulations for the Club World Cup 2025 include specific provisions regarding multi-club ownership, which prompted an investigation into the clubs' compliance [7][20] Proceedings Before the FIFA Disciplinary Committee - FIFA initiated disciplinary proceedings against both clubs for potential non-compliance with Article 10 of the regulations, leading to a request for further documentation and clarification [20][22] Respondents' Position - Both clubs argue that they operate independently and have not violated the regulations, emphasizing the lack of evidence from FIFA to support claims of non-compliance [22][29] - Pachuca and León highlight the principles of legal certainty and good faith, arguing that the disciplinary proceedings are unjustified and that they have acted in accordance with previously established regulations [28][34]

Investment Rating - The report does not explicitly provide an investment rating for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Core Insights - The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 is expected to generate significant socio-economic impacts, with a total attendance of approximately 3.7 million people and an estimated event-related expenditure of $7.2 billion [8][10] - The overall economic impact is projected to reach $41.3 billion globally, with a gross domestic product (GDP) contribution of $21.1 billion and the creation of 432,000 full-time equivalent jobs [8][39] - The Social Return on Investment (SROI) is calculated at 4.34, indicating that for every dollar invested, society is expected to benefit by $4.34 [9][64] Economic Impact - The macroeconomic analysis estimates the monetary impacts of spending, focusing on indicators such as gross output, GDP, labor income, and employment [14] - The total economic impact in the USA is projected at $17.1 billion, with a GDP contribution of $9.6 billion and 105,000 full-time equivalent jobs created [10][39] - The event is expected to generate direct, indirect, and induced economic contributions, with significant benefits for sectors such as wholesale & retail, accommodation & food, and defense & security [43] Social Impact - The social impact analysis highlights non-financial benefits, including improvements in health, well-being, and social connections within communities [26][71] - The total social benefits are estimated at $3.36 billion, with tourism-related benefits accounting for $2.43 billion, sport benefits at $0.58 billion, and entertainment benefits at $0.35 billion [60][62] - The event is anticipated to foster increased physical activity, leading to long-term health benefits and potential savings in public health costs [72][73] Methodology - The analysis employs the Social Return on Investment (SROI) methodology aligned with OECD guidelines, incorporating stakeholder engagement and outcome mapping [4][9] - Data sources include FIFA expenditure forecasts, tourism reports, and international benchmarks from organizations such as the World Bank and OECD [6][8] - The study utilizes an inter-country Social Accounting Matrix (SAM) to evaluate the economic impact across 45 productive sectors and 76 countries [5][15]

Investment Rating - The report does not explicitly provide an investment rating for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Core Insights - The FIFA World Cup 2026 is expected to have a significant socioeconomic impact, with a total attendance of approximately 6.5 million people and event-related total expenditure estimated at $13.9 billion [8][36] - The overall economic impact is projected to generate a gross output of $80.1 billion globally, with a GDP contribution of $40.9 billion and the creation of 824,000 full-time equivalent jobs [9][43] - The Social Return on Investment (SROI) is calculated at 3.64, indicating that for every dollar invested, society benefits by $3.64 [62] Summary by Sections Scope - The FIFA World Cup 2026 will expand to 48 teams, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, aiming to enhance global participation and competition [2][32] Methodology - The analysis employs Impact Analysis and Social Return on Investment (SROI) methodologies aligned with OECD guidelines, incorporating stakeholder engagement and monetization of benefits [4][28] Economic Impact - The total economic impact includes a gross output of $80.1 billion, with the USA contributing $30.5 billion to GDP and creating 185,000 full-time equivalent jobs [9][43] - The accommodation and food sector is expected to benefit the most, followed by real estate and wholesale and retail sectors [46][47] Social Impact - The event is projected to generate social benefits valued at $8.28 billion, with tourism, sports, and entertainment contributing significantly [58][60] - The SROI for the USA is calculated at 4.03, indicating substantial social returns from investments made for the event [66] Expenditure Breakdown - Total expenditure for the event is estimated at $13.9 billion, with the USA accounting for $11.1 billion, including $6.4 billion from anticipated tourist spending [36][37] Tourism Impact - The influx of visitors is expected to generate billions in economic activity, benefiting hospitality, transportation, and retail sectors, while enhancing the global visibility of host cities [34][38] Employment Generation - The event is anticipated to create 823,474 full-time equivalent jobs globally, with significant contributions from the accommodation and air transport sectors [50][51]

Investment Rating - The report does not provide a specific investment rating for the industry or companies involved. Core Insights - The dispute involves the Belgian Royal Football Association (RBFA) and Swiss sports agent Marc Biolley regarding a contract for organizing a friendly match between the Belgian and Egyptian national teams in Kuwait [8][10]. - RBFA claims that MWF (Matchworld Football S.A.) failed to pay a total of €275,000, which was due under the contract, leading to a formal breach notification and subsequent legal action [21][26]. - The contract stipulated that MWF would pay RBFA a total of €1.1 million, divided into four installments, for organizing the match and acquiring commercial and media rights [17][18]. - MWF argues that RBFA sold rights that did not belong to them, as the broadcasting rights were held by UEFA, which complicated the commercialization of the match [46][49]. Summary by Sections Section 1: Case Facts - The parties involved are RBFA (claimant) and Marc Biolley (respondent), who entered into a contract for a friendly match on August 26, 2022 [8][9]. - The contract included provisions for commercial and media rights, which were to be sold to MWF [10][11]. Section 2: Financial Terms - MWF was obligated to pay RBFA a total of €1.1 million, with specific payment schedules outlined [17][18]. - As of December 12, 2022, RBFA had not received the final payment of €275,000, prompting legal action [21][22]. Section 3: Legal Proceedings - RBFA filed a claim with FIFA's Football Tribunal on July 10, 2023, seeking payment and the revocation of Biolley's agent license [26][28]. - MWF counterclaimed for damages, alleging that RBFA's actions caused significant financial losses, estimated at €1,058,539 [28][49]. Section 4: Tribunal's Considerations - The tribunal confirmed the validity of the contract and the obligations of MWF to pay the outstanding amount [71][72]. - The tribunal ruled that MWF must pay RBFA the overdue amount plus interest, while rejecting MWF's counterclaims [98][100].

Investment Rating - The report does not explicitly provide an investment rating for the industry Core Insights - The global transfer system is crucial for professional football operations worldwide, with significant regulatory changes in 2024 aimed at enhancing player rights and transparency [9][10][11][12][15] - In 2024, international transfer fees for men's professional football reached USD 8.59 billion, marking the second-highest total ever, with a record 22,779 international transfers [19][20] - Women's professional football saw a record spending of USD 15.6 million on international transfer fees, more than doubling the previous year's amount [108][109] Summary by Sections Men's Professional Football - Global spending on international transfer fees reached USD 8.59 billion in 2024, with 1,100 clubs spending and 1,378 clubs receiving transfer fees [19][20] - The number of international transfers set a new record at 22,779, with a 4.4% increase from the previous year [20] - Transfers with fees accounted for 16.2% of all transfers, the highest proportion recorded [20] - The average transfer fee for players aged 24-29 was USD 2.6 million, while the average age of players transferring was 24.6 years [50][51] - Brazilian players led in transfer fees spent, totaling USD 1.19 billion, followed by players from France and Portugal [66] Women's Professional Football - Total spending on international transfer fees reached USD 15.6 million, with 109 clubs spending and 124 clubs receiving fees [108][109] - The number of international transfers increased to 2,284, a 20.8% rise from the previous year [109] - Fixed fees constituted 89.2% of total transfer fees, with 84.6% of transfers involving players out of contract [117][120] - The average transfer fee was USD 78,200, with players aged 18-23 and 24-29 commanding higher fees [134] Amateur Football - The number of transfers in amateur football reached 53,679, a 4.3% increase from the previous year [180] - The average age of amateur players transferring was 22.3 years, with a significant share of U-18 transfers [184] - Clubs from Germany had the most incoming transfers, totaling 7,459, while they also led in outgoing transfers with 3,995 [194][196]

Industry Investment Rating - The report does not explicitly provide an industry investment rating [1] Core Viewpoints - The report focuses on regulations governing the status and transfer of players, including contracts, third-party influence, and special provisions for female players and minors [4][7][32] - It emphasizes the importance of maintaining contractual stability between professionals and clubs, with specific rules for terminating contracts and compensation [13][14][17] - The report outlines the procedures for international transfers, including the use of the Transfer Matching System (TMS) and training compensation mechanisms [48][57][79] Third-Party Influence and Ownership - Clubs and players are prohibited from entering agreements with third parties that allow participation in future transfer compensation [19] - Existing agreements must be recorded in TMS by the end of April 2015, with full details of the third party, player, and agreement duration [20] Special Provisions for Female Players - Contracts cannot be invalidated based on pregnancy, adoption, or family leave [8] - Clubs must respect female players' rights related to menstrual health, allowing absence from training or matches with full remuneration [31][521] International Transfers Involving Minors - Minors can only be transferred under specific exceptions, such as transfers within the same country or for academic reasons [34][37] - Clubs must provide adequate football education and living standards for minors [11][35] Training Compensation and Solidarity Mechanism - Training compensation is payable when a player is registered as a professional for the first time or transferred before the age of 23 [79] - The solidarity mechanism requires 5% of transfer compensation to be distributed to clubs involved in the player's training [396] Jurisdiction and Dispute Resolution - FIFA has jurisdiction over employment-related disputes between clubs and players of international dimension [29][57] - The Football Tribunal can impose sanctions for breaches of contract, including registration bans and fines [24][466] Annexes and Additional Provisions - Annexes cover the release of players to association teams, employment of coaches, and international transfer procedures [92][170][208] - Temporary rules address the exceptional situation deriving from the war in Ukraine [269]

Event Overview - The 5th FIFA Compliance Summit will take place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from 9 to 10 April 2025 [19] - The event aims to support FIFA's 211 member associations by covering key compliance areas such as compliance programme development, governance, risk management, and internal audit practices [2] - The summit will include presentations and interactive workshops tailored to member associations at various stages of their compliance journeys [2] Event Logistics - The event will be conducted entirely in English with simultaneous interpreting into French and Spanish [3] - FIFA will cover the cost of economy-class travel, visa fees, and accommodation in Rio de Janeiro for the event days [3] - Each member association is invited to send one delegate responsible for compliance matters to attend the event in person [25] Event Programme Highlights Day 1 - 09:00 Official opening by Ednaldo Rodriguez (CBF) and Emilio Garcia Silvero (FIFA) [29] - 09:30 Session on "How to be wildly effective in compliance" by Kristy Grant-Hart [23] - 10:45 Roundtable discussion on "Governance in the sports industry" [33] - 13:30 Workshop on "Future-proof audits – Technology & AI in internal audit" by Anja Zumkeller and Edyta Idzikowska (FIFA) [34] - 16:00 Session on "The Financial Governance Guide" by Christoph Suppiger (FIFA) [30] - 17:00 Closing remarks and group picture [31] - 19:00 Dinner [32] Day 2 - 09:00 Welcome and recap of Day 1 [17] - 09:30 Session on "Beyond the trophy – How good governance drives football excellence" by Mauro Silva (Federação Paulista de Futebol) [8] - 14:30 Workshop on "Goalkeeper's guide to creating a risk management gameplan" by Ken Liddle (FIFA) [9] - 16:00 Feedback session [10] - 16:30 Official closing [18] Additional Information - A formal invitation detailing registration, travel, and accommodation arrangements will follow [20] - For questions, contact Zelin Xu, Independent Committees & Legal Projects Manager, at compliancesummit@fifa.org [26]