UEFA Sanction Softened FFP Regulations

UEFA has approved changes which will see its Financial Fair Play (FFP) rule expanded and strengthened.

The refining of FFP has been done with the aim of attracting new investors and will "encourage more growth and development, inclusivity and market stimulation".

The new UEFA Club Licensing and Financial Fair Play Regulations will run from the period from 2015–18.

UEFA President Michel Platini stated: "The new regulations are an expansion and a strengthening of financial fair play. The overall objectives of financial fair play remain the same".

The new amendments will take into account disadvantages faced by clubs due to sudden economic shocks or severe market structural deficiencies within its operating region. There is also a strengthening of the overdue payables criteria and new determination of related parties. All of these enhancements will further encourage responsible investors and stakeholders to continue to contribute to the strong and healthy growth of club football in Europe. 

The club licensing criteria of the regulations have been expanded to encourage inclusivity, promote integrity and increase awareness. Refinements will improve youth education and coaching quality by requiring educational programs that focus on the problems and dangers of match-fixing and a minimum standard of youth coaching qualifications.

In addition, expenditures related to youth and women's football development will now be excluded from the break-even calculation to incentivise more development in these programmes. In order to foster inclusiveness and accessibility, the updated club licensing regulations will now require clubs to appoint a disability access officer to assist in improving stadium facilities and access for disabled supporters.