The Diarra ruling: a turning point in European football law

The Diarra ruling: a turning point in European football law

On 4 October 2024, the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) delivered a landmark decision in the case Lassana Diarra v. FIFA and Belgian FA. The Court ruled that certain provisions of the FIFA Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players (RSTP) were contrary to EU law, particularly regarding the free movement of workers and fair competition.

The facts: a blocked transfer

After a salary dispute with Lokomotiv Moscow, Diarra attempted to join Sporting Charleroi. FIFA refused to issue his international transfer certificate, arguing that he owed compensation to his former club. His career was stalled for several years.

The CJEU’s reasoning

• Blocking the transfer hinders the free movement of players within the EU.
• Joint liability imposed on acquiring clubs restricts competition.
• Disproportionate compensation clauses violate the principle of proportionality under EU law.

A “Bosman 2.0”?

The Diarra ruling could transform the transfer market, similar to the Bosman case (1995), by strengthening player rights and mobility.

Practical consequences

• Revision of termination clauses and compensation rules.
• European clubs must adapt their transfer procedures.
• Professional and youth players gain greater mobility and legal certainty.
• FIFA will engage in dialogue to revise its regulations.

Global impact

The ruling also affects clubs and agents outside the EU, requiring compliance with European standards of free movement and contractual proportionality.