On Wednesday (26), the Brazilian Football Confederation announced the Financial Fair Play Rules, a set of rules aimed at balancing the accounts of the country’s clubs.
The Brazilian model, called the SSF (Financial Sustainability System), will build on standards already adopted abroad, setting limits on debt, team expenses, debt capacity and operational balance of Brazilian clubs.
The system will be implemented gradually from 2026 and will be overseen by a new independent agency, ANRESF (National Agency for the Regulation and Sustainability of Football).
Financial Fair Play in Brazilian football is based on four pillars:
- Control outstanding debts
- Operational balance
- Control costs with casting
- Capacity for short-term debt
The points are inspired by styles already established in leagues in England, France and Spain.
Samir Sood, President of the Brazilian Football Confederation, said: “Our financial sustainability system will not be just an administrative measure, but a tool to achieve fairness, balance and protect football.”
Regarding outstanding debts, the form provides for inspection three times a year: March 31, July 31, and November 31.
Debts before 2026 must be settled by November 30, 2026. Debts assumed as of January 1, 2026 will already be subject to the new rules.
As for the operating balance, the rule states that clubs must close the year with an operating surplus (the difference between income and expenses greater than 0).
For clubs in the Brazilian Primera Division, the maximum deficit is R$30 million or 2.5% of revenue. For those in Category B, R$10 million or 2.5% of revenues.
Regarding controlling casting costs, the model text says that the cost of the ensemble (composed of salaries, honoraria, image rights, and amortization) must be equal to or less than 70% of total revenues, transfers, and contributions.
The transition will take place in 2026 and 2027, with results reported in 2025 and 2026 with a caveat. From 2028 onwards, the cost can reach a limit of 80% for Series A and B, and from the following year, a limit of 70% for Series A and 80% for Series B.
Regarding short-term debt, Brazilian rules specify that net short-term debt must be equal to or less than 45% of related revenues. The transition period will be until 2027, with results reported in 2025 and 2026 that violate the warning. From 2028 to 2030, implementation will be gradual, with a maximum of 60% for 2028, 50% for 2029, and a final limit of 45% from 2030 onwards.