Unilateral Termination of Athlete Contracts: A Legal Analysis of Club Liability and Athlete Protection in Indonesian Professional Sport

Abstract

Athlete contracts are central to professional sports, yet disputes frequently arise when clubs terminate contracts unilaterally before their agreed expiration. Such termination may leave athletes without income, career opportunities, insurance coverage, or adequate compensation, particularly where bargaining power is unequal. This article examines the legal consequences of unilateral termination of professional athlete contracts in Indonesia. Employing a normative juridical approach, the study analyzes contractual principles, employment law, sports regulations, and dispute resolution mechanisms. The research argues that the distinctive economic and career characteristics of professional athletes require a more specific framework for evaluating contractual termination. Conventional contractual principles may be insufficient where clubs exercise disproportionate bargaining power or rely upon vaguely defined performance clauses. The article proposes minimum contractual safeguards requiring clearly defined grounds for termination, procedural notice, opportunities for athletes to respond, compensation standards, and accessible dispute resolution. Particular attention is given to termination following injury, declining performance, disciplinary allegations, or organizational restructuring. A balanced approach should protect clubs' legitimate sporting interests while preventing arbitrary termination and ensuring respect for athletes' economic rights. Establishing clearer standards would improve contractual certainty and strengthen the position of professional athletes within Indonesia's developing sports industry.