Which clauses should you look for in an esports player contract?

1 Salary and bonuses

One of the most important clauses in an esports player contract is the salary and bonuses section. This clause specifies how much you will earn as a base salary, as well as any additional payments for winning tournaments, achieving milestones, or participating in other activities. You should check that the salary and bonuses are fair, competitive, and consistent with your expectations and the market value of your role and skills. You should also look for any deductions, fees, or taxes that might reduce your net income.

2 Duration and termination

Another crucial clause in an esports player contract is the duration and termination section. This clause defines how long the contract will last, and under what circumstances it can be ended by either party. You should look for a reasonable and flexible duration that allows you to pursue your goals and opportunities, but also protects you from being locked in a bad deal or left without a team. You should also look for clear and fair terms for termination, such as notice periods, breach of contract, performance issues, or mutual agreement.

3 Rights and obligations

A third important clause in an esports player contract is the rights and obligations section. This clause outlines what you can and cannot do as a player, and what the team or organization expects from you. You should look for a balance between your rights and obligations, and avoid any clauses that are too restrictive, vague, or unfair. For example, you should look for clauses that respect your intellectual property rights, such as your name, image, and stream, and that allow you to have some control over your personal brand and sponsors. You should also look for clauses that specify your obligations, such as training, communication, conduct, and exclusivity, and that are reasonable and achievable.

4 Dispute resolution

A fourth important clause in an esports player contract is the dispute resolution section. This clause describes how any conflicts or disagreements between you and the team or organization will be handled and resolved. You should look for a clause that provides a clear and fair process for dispute resolution, such as mediation, arbitration, or litigation, and that specifies the jurisdiction, venue, and laws that will apply. You should also look for a clause that protects your rights and interests in case of a dispute, such as confidentiality, representation, and compensation.

5 Benefits and support

A fifth important clause in an esports player contract is the benefits and support section. This clause details what kind of benefits and support you will receive from the team or organization, such as health insurance, travel expenses, equipment, coaching, or education. You should look for a clause that offers you adequate and appropriate benefits and support for your needs and goals as a player, and that covers any costs or risks that you might incur as a result of your contract. You should also look for a clause that defines the conditions and limitations of the benefits and support, such as eligibility, availability, and quality.

6 Negotiation and amendment

A sixth important clause in an esports player contract is the negotiation and amendment section. This clause explains how you can negotiate and amend the contract with the team or organization, if needed. You should look for a clause that allows you to have some input and influence over the contract terms, and that enables you to make changes or adjustments if the circumstances change. You should also look for a clause that requires both parties to agree and sign any amendments, and that records and documents any changes in writing.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?