Canary Islands Overrule FIFA to Grant Sports Licenses to Minors in State Care

The Canary Islands government has set a major legal precedent by ruling that national law takes priority over FIFA guidelines regarding sports licenses for minors in state care. This decision resolves a long-standing issue that prevented hundreds of foreign children living in the islands from playing in official competitions, despite being fully integrated into their local schools and communities. FIFA’s original rules were intended to prevent the trafficking of young talent, but they inadvertently blocked vulnerable children from participating in sports.

The change was sparked by the case of Adú, a 12-year-old from Cameroon living in Tenerife. After training for three years without being allowed to play in matches, Adú finally received his license following a long campaign involving the Ombudsman, regional authorities, and an appeal he made directly to FIFA.

Since the new regional directive was issued in April, Adú has been able to join his team’s competitive matches and now serves as their captain. His family views this as a victory for children’s rights, noting that the previous rules unfairly denied vulnerable minors the chance to play and integrate. However, the process has been difficult; Adú’s foster father, Eduardo, has spoken out against the online harassment and misinformation the family has faced, pointing to a troubling lack of empathy toward children in the foster care system.

This case highlights the conflict between private sports regulations and Spanish child protection laws. FIFA’s rules previously failed to distinguish between international athlete transfers and children in need of protection, creating a barrier to their daily lives. By securing his license, Adú has not only gained the right to play but has also become a symbol of the fight against the rigid bureaucracy that has long hindered the social and athletic development of many children in the Canary Islands.