Mechanisms for protecting the labor rights of professional athletes in the Russian Federation and abroad

this article examines the mechanisms for protecting the labor rights of professional athletes in the Russian Federation and abroad. The main focus is on the specifics of labor relations in the sports industry, characterized by a high level of dynamism, strict training and competition schedules that differ from traditional forms of employment. The exceptional importance of these features influencing the nature of regulation of athletes' labor rights is emphasized. The paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the existing mechanisms for protecting the labor rights of professional athletes in both the Russian and foreign contexts. The norms established by international organizations such as the IOC, FIFA and FIBA are considered in detail and their influence on national legislation is investigated. Key regulatory acts of the Russian Federation are highlighted, such as Federal Law No. 329-FZ "On Physical Culture and Sports in the Russian Federation" and the introduction of Chapter 54.1 of the Labor Code of the Russian Federation regulating the labor relations of athletes and coaches. Special emphasis is placed on the problems that arise in the implementation of existing legal norms, including the lack of awareness of athletes about their rights, violations of employment contracts and delayed payment of wages. Statistical data illustrating the frequency of violations of the labor rights of Russian athletes are presented, emphasizing the need to increase the control and responsibility of employers. The article provides a detailed analysis of foreign experience, including models of labor relations regulation in the USA, Europe, Australia and other countries. Such effective protection mechanisms as the institute of trade unions, specialized legal support centers, programs for professional adaptation of athletes after the end of their careers, as well as social security and medical insurance systems are being investigated.

physical culture, athlete, labor rights, foreign countries, mechanism, social guarantees, employers