Numerous football clubs without a license: Who is left behind?

Numerous football clubs without a license: Who is left behind?

Licing in Austrian football plays a crucial role in the framework conditions of the Bundesliga. Since the introduction of the licensing procedure in the 1996/97 season, the league has been subject to strict criteria that are regularly checked in accordance with the requirements of the UEFA. These criteria include sporting, infrastructural, personnel and administrative, legal, as well as financial aspects and social and ecological sustainability. Although the licensing mainly applies to the Bundesliga, the clubs of the 2nd league have received a "licensing light" since the 2018/19 reform. This should ensure that all clubs are able to end the coming season, which is not always guaranteed. Some clubs have not received the license in the past, while others voluntarily forego the license due to financial difficulties, such as laola1.at reported.

The importance of financial sustainability is also underlined at European level. Andrea Traverso, the UEFA director for financial sustainability and research, announced changes to the provisions on financial sustainability. These new regules are a further development of the Financial Fair Play (FFP). Traverso emphasizes that the UEFA did not give up the previously applicable provisions that had positive effects but were not perfect. Instead, the new rules in cooperation with various interest groups were developed in order to meet the current market conditions. One of the most important innovations is the cadre cost rule, which will gradually come into force in the near future to ensure correct implementation, as uefa.com emphasizes.

challenges and dialogue

The introduction of new regulations brings challenges that are considered normal by the entire football community. Traverso emphasizes the need for a dialogue with clubs, national associations and leagues to ensure a smooth transition. UEFA has already started bilateral communications, workshops and training to promote the acceptance of the new regulations. One central goal of the new provisions is to ensure the long-term success of European football, especially according to the challenges of Covid-19 pandemic.

The new regulations are not only focused on the masters; There is also a separate regulations for women's football. This is intended to support the development of women's football and promote higher standards in promoting young talent, infrastructure and management of women's clubs. The acceptance of these regulations is crucial for their success and enforcement.