6+5 rule creates debate

Brussels, 02/03/2009 (Agence Europe) - The conclusions from the Institute for European Affairs (INEA), according to which the 6+5 rule does not conflict with European law (particularly the free movement of workers and competition rules (see EUROPE 9849), have not managed to persuade European legal specialists. In a joint press release, Professor Roger Blanpain (University of Leuven and Tilburg) and Professor Michele Colucci (European College of Parma and University of Tilburg) explain that the rule defended by FIFA quite clearly contravenes the European principle of freedom of movement for workers. They concluded that “professional football players are workers, therefore the principle of non-discrimination and the right to free movement apply to them. The Bosman case was very clear on this issue”. According to the two academics, the 6+5 rule is direct discrimination on the basis of nationality and is “unacceptable… In any case, if FIFA dares adopt such a rule, inevitably it will be challenged before the European Court of Justice”. (I.L./transl.rh)