Assessing the Impact of the New FIFA Football Agents’ Regulations on the African Football Market

Abstract

The implementation of FIFA’s Football Agent Regulations (FFAR) has affected football markets globally, with distinct implications for African football. This study assessed the impact of the FFAR on the African football market, focusing on player-agent relationships, transfer transparency, and participation of local agents. A mixed-methods approach was used, combining survey data from 68 players in Ghana and Nigeria, interviews with 10 football stakeholders, and analysis of FIFA transfer records. Descriptive and thematic analyses were conducted to examine key trends and responses. Findings showed that 67.7% of players viewed agents as important, yet 29.1% reported poor agent relationships. Only 49.2% supported commission caps, and 77.7% believed the cap would affect service quality. Licensing requirements and capped commissions were reported as major barriers to agent participation, particularly in low-resource settings. Interviews highlighted concerns about uneven enforcement across African associations and the risk of regulatory exclusion for small-scale agents. Survey data revealed that players preferred open-ended agent contracts (39.1%) but expressed concern over limited legal support and representation. The study concludes that while the FFAR may enhance professionalism and reduce exploitation, it may also restrict access to agent services for African players. Recommendations include reviewing the commission cap system, expanding agent training programs, supporting gender inclusion, and strengthening regulatory enforcement by African football associations. These measures are necessary to align global regulatory standards with local realities and ensure fair participation in international football markets.