Professional football clubs in Uzbekistan are preparing to transfer into the trust management of private entrepreneurs. These entrepreneurs commit to investing no less than 20% of the clubs' annual expenses in financing. The program includes 11 clubs, among which are well-known teams such as 'Bunyodkor', 'Navbahor', 'Neftchi', and 'Pakhtakor'.
This decision is being implemented as part of a competition announced in fulfillment of the decree of the President of Uzbekistan dated March 24, 2026, the goal of which is to improve the financing systems of the sports industry and increase business involvement.
Advantages for Entrepreneurs and Players
Entrepreneurs who gain the right to manage the clubs will receive a number of significant tax and financial benefits. For example, when calculating corporate profit tax, the legal entity can reduce the taxable base by the amount of sponsorship donations directed towards supporting the club, although this limit will not exceed 10% of the total taxable profit.
For the footballers themselves, an exemption from personal income tax is provided, and the social tax rate for them will be set at 1%. Additionally, commercial banks can provide loans for the acquisition of clubs, as well as for carrying out construction, reconstruction, and major repairs of sports facilities.
These loans will be available for up to five years at an annual interest rate of 14%, provided there is liquid collateral and an approved business plan, with a grace period of one year. It is important to note that buildings, structures, and land plots on the club's balance sheet cannot be used as such collateral.
Entrepreneurs will also be granted a 50% discount on advertising their goods and services on central and regional television channels belonging to the National Television and Radio Company of Uzbekistan during broadcasts dedicated to the popularization and development of sports.
List of Clubs and the 'Bunyodkor' Problem
The list of clubs that can be transferred into trust management includes: 'Bunyodkor', 'Bukhoro', 'Dynamo', 'Kyzylkum', 'Navbahor', 'Nasaf', 'Neftchi', 'Lokomotiv', 'Mash'al', AGMK, and 'Pakhtakor'.
It is worth mentioning separately the financial situation of the 'Bunyodkor' football club, which is complicated by stadium issues. The team has significant debts to foreign players, staff, as well as to tax and utility services. Previously, FIFA imposed a transfer ban on the club.
The situation with 'Bunyodkor' has worsened: since September 4, the club's stadium has not been receiving electricity due to unpaid debt, which approaches two billion soms. The club itself is also failing to meet its obligations to employees, tax authorities, utility services, and foreign footballers.
>
