The RSTP provides two distinct mechanisms for training clubs: training compensation and solidarity. They share an objective but operate differently.
The fundamental distinction
Remember this distinction to avoid common errors:
Solidarity is a percentage of transfer compensation. Training compensation uses training costs and club categories.
Age thresholds
Three reference points organise the calculation:
- Ages 12–15 — four seasons of basic training, treated separately in the calculation.
- Ages 16–21 — the later training period used in training compensation calculations.
- Age 23 — the last training season counted for solidarity; it does not impose a maximum age for the subsequent transfer.
When an exam question mentions age, first determine which mechanism and age period apply before examining the answers.
How the calculation works
Training compensation uses club categories and annual training costs multiplied by the relevant seasons. The applicable club category and specific rules for ages 12–15 affect the calculation.
Solidarity works differently: a portion of transfer compensation is distributed among training clubs according to the seasons spent with each.
Common traps
- Applying a percentage when training costs are required.
- Forgetting that the engaging club's category changes the result.
- Counting training seasons beyond the relevant age limit.
- Confusing transfer compensation with training compensation.
How to practise
The course's module 4 includes three lessons on training compensation: principles, calculation and exceptions; and two on solidarity, including case studies. Study them in order: the calculation depends on understanding the principle.