webeeui-hero-2-colSports Contracts
Sports Contracts: Secure Your Career and Your Interests
Contract negotiation? Renewal? Transfer in the works? We're here to help.
A sports contract commits your career, your remuneration, and your professional future. Whether you are an athlete, coach, staff member, or club employee, each signature binds you for several seasons and shapes your career path.
Every clause counts: duration, remuneration, termination conditions, exit clauses, compliance with federal regulations.
Well-prepared negotiations protect you and ensure your talent is valued at its true worth.
Since 1973, Cabinet Bertrand has been assisting athletes, coaches, and members of technical, medical, and administrative staff in the negotiation, analysis, and drafting of their contracts.
Our exclusive expertise in sports law allows us to decipher complex clauses, anticipate sticking points, and secure your interests with clubs and partners.
webeeui-centered-3-colYour Goals
A sports contract commits your professional career for several years. Whatever your situation, we support you in securing your interests and optimizing your contractual terms.
Is your project not listed below? Contact us: every situation is unique.
Contract Negotiation and Drafting
Are you starting negotiations with a club or looking to formalize a professional commitment?
Relevant projects:
- First professional contract
- Renewal of current contract
- Salary negotiation (fixed salary, bonuses, performance bonuses)
- Exit clauses and termination conditions
- Coach or technical staff member contract
- Agreement and contract for players in training (aspiring, trainee, elite)
- …
Analysis and audit of existing contracts
Have you received an offer or would you like to review your current commitments?
Projects concerned:
- Legal review of a proposed contract
- Identification of risky or unbalanced clauses
- Compliance verification (collective agreements, federal regulations)
- Preparation for renegotiation
- Comparative analysis with market standards
- …
Transfer and Mobility
Are you preparing for a domestic or international transfer and want to ensure the operation goes smoothly?
Projects concerned:
- Transfer agreement between clubs
- Player loan agreement (with or without purchase option)
- International transfer protocol
- Management of the International Transfer Certificate (ITC/CTI)
- Training compensation and solidarity mechanism
- …
Relations with sports agents
Would you like to formalize or secure your relationship with an agent or representative?
Relevant projects:
- Analysis of a proposed representation mandate
- Drafting or reviewing a sports agent contract
- Verification of compliance with FIFA and federal regulations
- Clarification of commission terms
- Establishing a mandate with a sports agent
- …
Training and First Contracts
Are you a young athlete in training or a parent supporting your child in their career?
Relevant projects:
- Training agreement with a training center
- Aspirant, intern, or elite contract
- First professional contract (transition from training to professional)
- Legal protection for minor athletes
- Support for families in negotiations
- Anticipation of future training compensation
- …
webeeui-left-split-toggleOur Support by Profile
Professional and Amateur Athletes
Who do we support?
- Team sports: soccer, basketball, rugby, handball, volleyball, hockey, futsal, etc.
- Individual sports: Tennis, Athletics, Cycling, Swimming, Boxing, Horse riding, Golf, etc.
- Professional eSports players
- Jockeys (gallop, trot)
- All levels: professional, semi-professional, amateur, young people in training
Our services
- ✅ Contract negotiation: Support in your discussions with clubs and partners
- ✅ Drafting and review: Analysis and drafting of your sports employment contracts (permanent and fixed-term contracts)
- ✅ Optimization of clauses: Securing your rights (remuneration, termination, duration)
- ✅ Transfer advice: Legal preparation for your national or international mobility
- ✅ Contract audit: Verification of your existing commitments
When should you consult a lawyer to negotiate your sports contract?
Ideally , before signing any commitment. As soon as you receive an offer, we analyze the clauses, identify the points to be negotiated, and assist you in the discussions. Even if a contract has already been signed, we can audit your commitments to prepare for a renewal or identify exit options. Consulting in advance avoids unpleasant surprises and puts you in a position of strength.
What are the essential clauses to check in a player contract?
Critical clauses concern remuneration (fixed salary, bonuses, performance bonuses), the term and conditions of renewal, exit clauses (release, termination), non-competition obligations, and clauses in the event of a dispute. We also check compliance with applicable collective bargaining agreements and federal regulations. A well-negotiated contract protects your interests while preserving your flexibility for the future.
Coaches, Technical Staff, and Supervisors
Who do we support?
- Head coaches and assistants, all sports and all levels
- Physical and mental trainers
- Sports and technical directors
- Educators and trainers
- Sports doctors, physical therapists, osteopaths
Our services
- ✅ Contract negotiation: Support in your negotiations with clubs and organizations
- ✅ Drafting of employment contracts: permanent contracts, fixed-term sports contracts, fixed-term common law contracts, assignment contracts
- ✅ Compensation optimization: Salary structure, benefits, performance bonuses
- ✅ Protection clauses: Non-competition, intellectual property, confidentiality
- ✅ Mobility advice: Legal preparation for career transitions
Does the specific fixed-term contract under the French Sports Code apply to coaches?
Yes, the specific fixed-term contract (Articles L.222-2 et seq. of the French Sports Code) applies to professional coaches. Article L.222-2 defines a professional coach as any person whose main paid activity is to prepare and supervise the sporting activities of one or more professional athletes. The National Collective Agreement for Sport specifies that the main activity consists of devoting more than 50% of one's working time to this task. The rules are then identical to those for players: minimum duration of a sports season, maximum duration of 5 years, strict formalities, etc.
Which coaches are covered by permanent or fixed-term contracts under common law?
Coaches and trainers who do not supervise professional athletes are not covered by the specific fixed-term contract under the Sports Code. This is particularly the case for trainers at training centers who only supervise young people in training, coaches at amateur clubs, or directors of training centers whose main activity is administrative. These professionals remain subject to the National Collective Agreement for Sport (CCNS) but within the framework of standard labor law (permanent or fixed-term contracts under common law), with the usual rules on duration, renewal, and termination. We tailor our advice to each contractual situation.
Amateur Clubs and Sports Associations
Who do we support?
- Amateur clubs (regional, departmental, all disciplines)
- Local sports associations
- Training facilities and training centers
Our services
- ✅ Drafting contracts: Players, coaches, employees, partners
- ✅ Training agreements: Formalization of commitments with young players
- ✅ Availability agreements: Players, equipment, facilities
- ✅ Partnership contracts: Local sponsors, equipment manufacturers, local authorities
- ✅ Contract audit: Verification of your organization's existing commitments
How can you secure training compensation when a player trained at your club signs a professional contract elsewhere?
When a player trained at your club signs their first professional contract with another club, you are entitled to training compensation. To secure this right, it is essential to document the player's training history (years of license, categories, diplomas obtained) and to ensure that your club complies with the criteria defined by federal regulations. We assist training clubs in putting together their files and, where necessary, in filing claims with the relevant authorities to obtain payment of the sums due.
Sports Agents
Who do we support?
- Practicing sports agents (all sports), French and foreign
- Candidates for the profession of agent
- Sports intermediary companies
Our services
- ✅ Drafting of mandates: Representation contracts in compliance with regulations
- ✅ Structuring of activities: Legal form, regulatory compliance
- ✅ Compliance advice: Adaptation to applicable FIFA and federal rules
- ✅ Continuing education: Support with regulatory changes
- ✅ Foreign agents: support and application for temporary authorization to practice in France (EU agents) with delegated federations, drafting and monitoring of representation agreements (non-EU agents)
How can I secure my mandates as a sports agent?
Securing your mandates requires a properly drafted representation contract that complies with applicable FIFA and federal regulations. The mandate must specify the scope of the assignment, the duration, the terms of remuneration, and the payment terms. We draft solid mandates and advise you on best practices.
Important note: Cabinet Bertrand primarily assists athletes and coaches in their relationships with agents. Our support for agents mainly concerns issues of structuring, compliance, and drafting mandates, excluding disputes between an agent and an athlete whom we represent elsewhere.
webeeui-nested-featuresWhy choose Cabinet Bertrand?
Every sports issue requires specific legal expertise. Identify the situation that corresponds to your immediate needs. Our lawyers who are experts in sports law will assist you with a tailor-made approach, whether your case is urgent or requires a long-term strategy.
OUR DIFFERENTIATING EXPERTISE
52 years of exclusive practice in sports law
Since 1973, we have practiced exclusively in sports law. This total specialization gives us in-depth knowledge of sports contracts, collective agreements, and federal regulations in all disciplines
Knowledge of the sports field
Beyond the law, we understand the realities of professional sports: transfer windows, negotiation strategies, and the balance of power between players and clubs. This understanding enriches our legal advice.
Professional recognition
- Gold Trophy 2024 & 2025 — Law Summit (Sports Law)
- Gold Medals 2021, 2022, 2024, 2025 — Palmarès du Droit
- "Essential" ranking — Décideurs Magazine (since 2011)
OUR METHODOLOGY
Step 1: Listening and diagnosis
In-depth interview to understand your situation, your objectives, and the issues at stake in your negotiation or contractual project.
Step 2: Analysis and recommendations
Detailed review of documents (proposed contracts, existing commitments) and formulation of personalized recommendations.
Step 3: Drafting or negotiation
Depending on your needs: drafting contracts, reviewing clauses, providing support in discussions with your counterparts.
Step 4: Follow-up and support
Continuous availability for adjustments, questions, and changes to your contractual situation.
webeeui-full-width-brandWhy anticipate your contractual issues?
In professional sports, a contract often commits you to several years of your career and involves considerable sums of money. A poorly negotiated contract, an overlooked clause, or an unfavorable exit condition can have lasting consequences on your career and your compensation.
Risks avoided thanks to preventive advice
Risks in the absence of legal support:
- ❌ Unfavorable clauses that go unnoticed (excessive duration, unbalanced termination conditions)
- ❌ Sub-optimal remuneration (poorly structured bonuses, unsecured bonuses)
- ❌ Disadvantageous exit conditions (no release clause or clause that is too high)
- ❌ Non-compliance with applicable regulations (risk of invalidity or litigation)
- ❌ Weakened negotiating position vis-à-vis experienced clubs
Objectives of legal support:
- ✅ Balanced contract protecting your interests throughout the term
- ✅ Optimized compensation (structured fixed + variable)
- ✅ Flexibility preserved for your career development
- ✅ Compliance with collective agreements and federal regulations
- ✅ Legal peace of mind so you can focus on your athletic performance
- ✅ Be fully informed of the legal issues and contractual clauses agreed upon
The economics of anticipation
Preventive legal advice represents a fraction of the cost of subsequent litigation. Beyond the costs, a contractual dispute generates stress, consumes your energy, and can affect your professional reputation. Investing in upfront support secures your career path and avoids these situations.
webeeui-faqFAQ: Sports Contracts
When should you consult a lawyer about your sports contract?
Ideally , before signing any agreement. As soon as you receive an offer, we analyze the clauses, identify the points to be negotiated, and support you in the discussions. Preventive consultation allows you to avoid unfavorable clauses and negotiate from a position of strength. If you have already signed, we can audit your contract to prepare for renewal or identify options for change.
What types of contracts can Cabinet Bertrand analyze or draft?
Our expertise covers all types of contracts in the sports world:
- Employment contracts: professional players (specific fixed-term contracts), coaches, technical and medical staff, administrative employees
- Training contracts: trainees, interns, elite athletes, training agreements
- Transfer contracts: agreements between clubs, loans, international protocols
- Agent contracts: representation mandates, intermediation contracts
- Settlement agreements: memoranda of understanding, mutual termination agreements, NDAs
We analyze all contracts and draft those that comply with industry standards.
What is the difference between a fixed-term contract for athletes and a standard fixed-term contract?
The specific fixed-term contract for professional athletes (Article L.222-2-3 of the French Sports Code) is subject to special rules: minimum duration of one sports season (12 months), maximum duration of 5 years, and strict formal requirements, failure to comply with which may result in the contract being reclassified as a permanent contract. This contract applies to professional athletes and coaches employed by sports associations or clubs. Coaches are sometimes covered by fixed-term or permanent contracts under common law, depending on their situation.
Can you assist me in my dealings with my sports agent?
Yes. We analyze the representation mandates offered to you, verify their compliance with FIFA and federal regulations, and advise you on the terms and conditions (scope, duration, commission). In the event of difficulties with your agent, we can also assist you in clarifying or changing the contractual relationship. Our position at the service of athletes guarantees advice that is focused on your interests.
How does support for contract negotiations work?
Support is provided in several stages:
- Assessment: Interview to understand your situation, your objectives, and the context of the negotiation
- Analysis: Review of proposals received or drafting of a contract
- Recommendations: Identification of points to be negotiated and discussion strategy
- Support: Assistance during negotiations (preparation of exchanges, review of successive versions)
- Finalization: Review of the final contract before signing
The duration varies depending on the complexity of the transaction, from a few days to several weeks for international transfers.
Do you handle international transfers?
Yes. We assist players and clubs with their international transactions: legal preparation of the transfer, drafting or analysis of agreements, management of the International Transfer Certificate (ITC/CIT), verification of training compensation and the solidarity mechanism. Our knowledge of FIFA regulations and international bodies (Player Status Chamber, Dispute Resolution Chamber) ensures the security of these transactions.
How much does support with sports contracts cost?
Fees depend on the nature of the service:
- Consultation and one-off analysis: Flat fee depending on the complexity of the contract
- Negotiation support: Flat fee or hourly rate depending on the expected duration
- Contract drafting: Flat fee based on the type of contract
We always provide a preliminary quote detailing the services and their cost. An initial 15-minute consultation is offered free of charge to assess your needs.