AIFF Introduces New Player Transfer Regulations to Enhance Welfare and Inclusivity
AIFF Unveils Updated Player Transfer Regulations
New Delhi [India], May 31: The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has revealed a series of changes to its Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players (RSTP), set to take effect on June 1, as per a statement from the federation.
The primary aim of these reforms is to bolster player welfare, with a particular focus on promoting women's and youth football, while also enhancing transparency in regulations.
A notable aspect of the revised regulations is the heightened emphasis on the rights and health of female athletes. The AIFF has implemented provisions that allow women players to take time off from training during their menstrual cycles, addressing menstrual health directly.
Additionally, the updated rules now encompass maternity, adoption, and family leave for both players and coaches, fostering a more inclusive atmosphere for women in football.
The amendments also bring about significant changes in player transfers and youth development. New restrictions on the number and length of player loan agreements have been established to promote fairness. To protect young talent, the AIFF has updated its regulations regarding the registration of minors in academies, aligning with FIFA's child protection standards.
Earlier on Thursday, the AIFF announced the Academy Accreditation Rules and Regulations for the 2025-26 season. The application period for academy accreditation is now open, with a deadline set for June 10.
To qualify for elite academy accreditation, an academy must complete a minimum nine-point checklist to achieve a one-star rating. Further excellence ratings, ranging from two to five stars, will be awarded based on a gradation system across various categories.
Academies that do not meet the minimum checklist requirements but still seek formal recognition through the AIFF Academy Accreditation process will be assigned a 'Basic Accreditation' category, which will be introduced after the initial round of Elite Academy Accreditation.