Particle.news
Download on the App Store

RFU Extends RPL Rights to 2030 and Tightens In-Season Financial Controls

The union argues the Sports Ministry’s planned cuts to foreign‑player slots would reduce competitiveness, straining club budgets.

Overview

  • Russia’s football union confirmed the Premier League will continue organizing the top division through the 2029/30 season, retaining commercial and broadcast rights.
  • The RFU approved stricter licensing rules that flag budget shortfalls over 15% in the RPL and 10% in the First League, with potential sanctions including bans on registering new players.
  • Financial monitoring will be conducted after the third quarter of the season, and clubs must submit explanations and corrected plans, with enhanced disclosure of contracts, transfers and intermediary fees.
  • The Sports Ministry has proposed tightening the foreign‑player limit to 10 per squad and 5 on the field by 2028 through annual reductions to the 2028/29 season.
  • RFU general secretary Maxim Mitrofanov said the proposed cap would not eliminate mediocre imports, warning of weaker international competitiveness, forced sales, rising future transfer costs, and agent‑driven wage pressures; current rules allow 13 registered foreigners and 8 on the pitch, with U23 Russians at roughly 18% of RPL minutes.