More than 22,000 cases, applications and enquiries received and processed in 2025/2026, showcasing the relevance and efficiency of the regulatory and dispute resolution services provided by FIFA
Number of eligibility and change-of-association requests rose by around 37% amid preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026™
Growing use of mediation, continued innovation and the application of the Interim Regulatory Framework underline the Football Tribunal’s evolving role
FIFA has published its fifth annual Football Tribunal Report, detailing the activities of the FIFA Football Tribunal (FT) and the Disputes & Regulatory Applications department between 1 July 2025 and 30 June 2026.
The reporting period saw another record level of activity, with more than 22,000 cases, applications and enquiries received and processed. The figures reflect the ever-increasing importance of the FT in supporting the good functioning of the global transfer system, extending beyond traditional dispute resolution to include regulatory services.
At the same time, the increased volume was managed without compromising efficiency or quality. International transfers of minors continued to be processed within short timeframes, while dispute resolution cases were equally resolved within consistently swift periods. This underlines not only the scale of the Football Tribunal’s work but also reflects FIFA’s continued commitment to protecting all stakeholders through efficient processes and timely decision-making across the football landscape.
During the reporting period, over 17,000 applications for international transfers of minors were submitted. Eligibility and change-of-association matters also recorded particularly significant growth, with the combined number of requests increasing by around 37% in the build-up to the FIFA World Cup 2026™.
For the first time, this year’s report includes a dedicated analysis of the impact of the World Cup cycle on these requests. The analysis examines how activity evolved alongside the qualification process, the Member Associations that were most actively involved, and the distribution of requests across the six confederations. Contractual disputes also continued their sustained upward trend, with unprecedented numbers of claims received and resolved, particularly in employment-related disputes between players and clubs.
Mediation also gained momentum, with the number of cases submitted more than doubling compared with the previous reporting period, alongside a marked increase in successful outcomes.
The reporting period further marked the first full year following the approval of the Interim Regulatory Framework, with the FT applying and interpreting the revised framework.
All these activities reflect FIFA's commitment to transparent, efficient, and accessible regulatory and dispute resolution services for all stakeholders worldwide.