A Comprehensive Guide to Submitting Claims before the Football Tribunal - July 2023 Circular

A Comprehensive Guide to Submitting Claims before the Football Tribunal - July 2023 Circular


The FIFA Statutes and the accompanying regulations governing their implementation form the Constitution of football's international governing body. They provide the basic laws for world football, on which countless rules are set for competitions, transfers, doping issues and a host of other concerns. The functions and procedures of the Football Tribunal are governed by theProcedural Rules Governing the Football Tribunal , as issued by the FIFA Council.


The July 2023 circular provides updated guidelines for individuals or organizations seeking to lodge claims before the Football Tribunal. This guide aims to walk you through the process of filing a claim, highlighting the necessary steps and documents required for a successful submission.

1. Identify the Jurisdiction:


Before proceeding with a claim, it is essential to determine whether the matter falls within the jurisdiction of the Football Tribunal. The July 2023 circular outlines the types of disputes that can be brought before the Tribunal, such as player misconduct, breach of contract, disputes between clubs, and other football-related issues. The football Tribunal itself consists of three chambers - the Dispute Resolution Chamber (DRC), the Players’ Status Chamber (PSC), and the Agents Chamber (AC).


Parties may also choose to mediate their disputes at any time before submitting to the tribunals or amidst the duration of the proceeding. This alternate dispute mechanism is usually sought to maintain civil relations while solving these disputes. The only prerequisite of parties choosing mediation is that it must be a voluntary action taken by the parties after which a mediator will be assigned free of charge through the FIFA approved list of mediators. This process of mediation will not affect the ongoing procedures of the tribunal in any way.

2. Gather Relevant Information:


Once you have looked into the jurisdiction in order to support your claim, one must gather all pertinent documentation and evidence. This may include contracts, correspondence, witness statements, video footage, or any other material that substantiates your case. Organize the evidence in a clear and coherent manner for easy reference during the proceedings.

3. Consult Legal Representation:


While not mandatory, seeking legal advice or representation is advisable when filing a claim. Sports law professionals can provide guidance on the strength of your case, assist with drafting the claim, and represent your interests throughout the process. Their expertise can greatly enhance your chances of success.

4. Draft the Claim:


Prepare a well-structured and concise claim document that clearly outlines the nature of the dispute, the relevant facts, and the relief sought. Adhere to the formatting guidelines provided in the July 2023 circular, including the use of specific headings, numbering, and page limits. The claim should present a compelling argument supported by the gathered evidence.

5. Lodge the Claim:


Submit the claim to the designated address or portal specified in the July 2023 circular. Pay attention to the specified timeframe and any applicable deadlines. It is recommended to keep copies of all documents submitted for your records.

6. Required Fees:


Review the circular for any fees associated with submitting a claim before the Football Tribunal. Ensure that the necessary fees are paid within the stipulated timeframe. Failure to pay the required fees may result in the rejection of your claim.

7. Acknowledgment of Receipt:


Upon receiving your claim, the Tribunal will issue an acknowledgment of receipt. This acknowledgment will provide important information about the subsequent steps in the process, including the appointment of an adjudicatory panel, timelines for submissions, and the hearing date if applicable.

8. Comply with Timelines:


Adhere to all timelines specified by the Football Tribunal. These may include deadlines for submitting additional evidence, responding to counterclaims, or filing motions. Failure to comply with these timelines may impact the progress of your claim.

9. Participate in the Hearing:


If a hearing is scheduled, make sure to attend and actively participate. Present your case clearly, call witnesses if necessary, and respond to any questions or challenges raised by the opposing party or the Tribunal panel. Follow the rules of conduct and decorum outlined in the July 2023 circular.

10. Tribunal's Decision:


Following the conclusion of the hearing or the submission of final arguments, the Tribunal will deliberate and render a decision. The decision will be communicated to all parties involved, outlining the findings, any penalties or remedies imposed, and the rationale behind the decision. The decision given by the tribunal is binding however the circular specifies that this decision is appealable before the Court of Arbitration of Sport within 21 days of the notification of the grounds of the decision passed by the tribunals. Submitting a claim before the Football Tribunal requires careful adherence to the guidelines outlined in the July 2023 circular. By following the step-by-step process and ensuring the submission of all necessary documents, claimants can navigate the proceedings effectively. It is crucial to review the specific requirements and provisions of the circular to maximize the chances of a successful claim. Seeking legal advice can further strengthen your position andprovide invaluable support throughout the process.