Guide to Sports Citizenship: Changing Countries, Careers, and Key Rules in 2025

Changing citizenship is a decision that not only raises many questions but also carries the potential to drastically alter the career of a professional athlete. In today’s globalized sports world, where competition is becoming increasingly fierce, this step can sometimes open the door to a whole new range of opportunities. We aim to explore how changing citizenship can affect an athlete’s career prospects, as well as examine both the advantages and disadvantages of this choice, drawing on multiple sources and real-life examples.

One of the main reasons for changing citizenship is an unfavorable political or economic situation in the home country. Restrictions, sanctions, or the inability to participate in international tournaments may force an athlete to look for alternative ways to continue their career.

A shortage of funding, modern training facilities, or professional support from sports federations also plays a significant role. Moving to another country often provides access to better conditions, coaches, and resources, which positively impacts performance.

In countries with high competition, earning a spot on the national team can be extremely difficult. In contrast, less “crowded” sports nations are often willing to accept talented athletes and offer them a platform to compete internationally.

In recent years, mechanisms have emerged allowing athletes to compete for another country without changing their passport. This makes the process of changing sports citizenship less radical in terms of personal identity.

Changing citizenship can open doors to the Olympics, World Championships, and other international events that were previously inaccessible. This is especially relevant for athletes from countries restricted by sanctions or limited quotas.

More developed sports systems offer better training conditions: coaching teams, scientific support, medical care, and sports psychologists. Combined, these factors help athletes reach new heights.

Changing citizenship can trigger mixed reactions among fans, the sports community, and even relatives. Athletes may be accused of betrayal or of exploiting new opportunities solely for personal gain.

Moving to another country is not just about changing the flag — it also requires adapting to a new culture, language, and lifestyle. This can be stressful, especially during the first months.

Harsh criticism, media scrutiny, and social isolation can negatively affect an athlete’s mental state, which in turn can impact performance.

Each sports federation has its own regulations regarding citizenship changes. In some sports, there are mandatory waiting periods; in others, the official consent of the previous federation is required.

Example: In football, an athlete who changes sports citizenship must wait a certain amount of time before they can play for the new national team.

Some countries do not allow dual citizenship, forcing athletes to choose between giving up their previous passport or forgoing participation in competitions for their new country.

Changing sports citizenship is a strategic decision and should be made considering the following factors:

• legal consequences;
• career prospects;
• personal circumstances and goals;
• social and cultural characteristics of the country.

Changing sports citizenship is more than just a bureaucratic formality. It is a decision that can give an athlete a second chance at success — or result in challenges and disappointment. It requires careful consideration, thorough analysis, and professional support.

If you are an athlete, coach, or agent considering a change of sports citizenship — do not make the decision alone.

Contact us! We will help you assess the prospects, understand the risks, and find the best solution for your situation.