Key Takeaways:
- FIFA prepared to prohibit loans between clubs owned by the same business group
- Recent disputes prompted tightening of loan regulations
- Policy to impact major groups including City Football Group and Red Bull
FIFA is preparing to introduce a major rule change that will ban the loaning of players between clubs belonging to the same business group.
The aim is to combat multi-ownership and the creation of an “internal market” between clubs. FIFA seeks to promote long-term contracts, ensure stability in players’ careers, and prevent the monopolisation of talent.
La FIFA va interdire les prêts entre clubs appartenant au même groupe dans le cadre de la lutte contre la #multipropriété.
Cette mesure, qui cible notamment Eagle Football, vise à limiter le marché interne et à encourager les contrats longue durée.
(Mundo Deportivo) pic.twitter.com/VLTDlQ31xG
— Lyon Fédération (@LyonFederation) August 9, 2025
It should be recalled that FIFA had already placed limits on loans, allowing up to six outgoing and six incoming loaned players per club, under Article 10 of the Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players. But recent disputes, such as the one between Botafogo and Lyon, both owned by Eagle Football Group, have led to a tightening of the rules.
The new policy affects major groups such as City Football Group, Eagle, Red Bull, Grupo Pachuca, and 777 Partners, who have used loans as a tool to optimise their squads. FIFA aims to restrict this advantage and balance competition.
