Dispute Between Football Agents
Inter-agent disputes are something that are more often than not resolved ‘behind closed doors’ and possibly even out of the sight of the football authorities. Although the details of such agreements post settlement SHOULD be filed with the football authorities in many cases, means that mediation is a viable solution to resolve such disputes between football agents confidentially.
Given the extensive background knowledge and experience of the football agent industry possessed by some of Sentinel’s football mediators we can apply this to disputes between football agents in reaching a mutually agreed resolution, that fulfils their needs and also those of the football authorities.
Damaging for Both Agents
Mediation also works in a way that we will believe appeals to many football agents; as ultimately the mediation ends in a ‘deal’ being struck by way of a settlement.
There is no judgement by the mediator (who remains independent and impartial), and they merely help facilitate the disputants reaching their own solution and subsequent settlement agreement -which means there isn’t a ‘loser’ in mediation. In fact, there are 2 winners as a result of a settlement from mediation, in that both disputants can walk away, if not happy then at least mildly mutually satisfied.
In reaching a quick, cost effective and confidential resolution through mediation, football agents can reach a settlement in their disputes and focus more on business interests and their clients rather than be distracted by unnecessary disputes with fellow agents.
Specialists in Football Agent Disputes
Sentinel are able to assist with the application of Mediation to a broad range of football related disputes. We have specific specialist knowledge and experience in matters relating to disputes that involve football agents (intermediary) and those matters related to football agent activity.
In January 2023 FIFA announced the reintroduction of the agents license along with new regulations governing agent and agent related activity, and whilst this should be seen as a positive sign we believe it may trigger another surge in disputes relating to agents and football agent activity. This is seemingly reinforced by the fact that FIFA have announced the introduction of an ‘Agent Chamber’ as part of FIFA’s Football Tribunal (disciplinary and dispute resolution) to solely deal with agent disputes of an international dimension.
Accredited Mediators With CMC, IMI and Emc
Sentinel mediators are all recognised and qualified through the CMC (Civil Mediation Council) and/or the IMI (International Mediation Institute). This ensures mediators undertake CPD, follow established standards and employ a recognised complaints procedure.
In addition to this, Sentinel mediators have past experience in a variety of practical roles within football whether it be as club officials, agents, players or as officers of football related associations and bodies.
Mediation in Football
Given the nature of football in terms of its competitive (both on the pitch and off it) and increasingly lucrative nature; the grounds for disputes have grown as has the sport (and the industry).
Whilst disputes in football have grown in number, value and complexity; the means for resolving such disputes have arguably failed to develop in capacity at the same pace.
Through mediation, Sentinel are able to offer football participants a cost-effective, quick, impartial and confidential means to resolve their football disputes. In addition to this there is no winner and loser in mediation, we like to think of it as a ‘mutually beneficial draw in the group, stages allowing both teams to be content with a place in the next round’.
