The Estonian Competition Authority has concluded that it will not initiate misdemeanour proceedings against NGO Jalgpalliklubi FCF Jalgpallikool. This decision follows an investigation into an offer made by Aivar Pohlak, a representative of the NGO, to enter into an anti-competitive agreement with another football club.

The investigation stemmed from criminal proceedings that began in early 2025. However, due to amendments in the Penal Code effective from July 6, 2025, the Prosecutor’s Office terminated the criminal proceedings and referred the matter to the Competition Authority for a decision on potential misdemeanour or competition supervision actions.

In light of this, the Competition Authority has issued a recommendation to all market participants, urging them to cease any inter-club cooperation agreements that restrict or prohibit the poaching and recruitment of coaches and players. The Authority emphasizes that such agreements are considered anti-competitive and violate competition law.

The Competition Authority also highlighted the importance of allowing employees and players the freedom to choose their workplaces, as restrictive agreements can negatively impact working conditions and market dynamics. Violations of these prohibitions can result in fines of up to 10% of the total worldwide turnover of the offending entities.

For further information or to report potential violations, the Competition Authority encourages contact through their official channels.