New Organization to Manage Professional Leagues, Separating Administration from Operations

Chinese Football Takes a Step Towards Independence

A significant milestone has been reached in the reform of Chinese football with the approval of a new independent organization to manage the country's professional leagues. This union, expected to be established by the end of January, marks a crucial step in delegating the operation of professional leagues to an independent body, separate from the Chinese Football Association (CFA).

The announcement was made by CFA president Song Kai at a members congress on Thursday. He emphasized that this move will enhance transparency, efficiency, and overall development within the professional football ecosystem in China.

This new legal entity will be responsible for organizing competitions and commercial operations for Chinese professional leagues at all three levels. The reform, long anticipated, aligns with the plan for the reform and development of Chinese football released in 2015. This plan stated that the CFA would transition to an "association" officially disconnected from the General Administration of Sports.

The establishment of this independent organization is expected to be a significant breakthrough in the reform of Chinese football. It will allow the CFA to focus on its core responsibilities of developing the national team, youth training, and community football. This move is seen as crucial for China to keep up with the development of international football and pave the way for a more sustainable and successful future for the sport in the country.