The Jamaica Football Federation, JFF, awarded regional licenses to 11 clubs participating in this season’s Jamaica Premier League.
The clubs are Arnett Gardens, Cavalier, Dunbeholden, Harbour View, Montego Bay United, Mount Pleasant, Portmore United, Racing United, Tivoli Gardens, Vere United and Waterhouse.
The remaining three clubs – Chapelton Maroons, Humble Lion , and Molynes United – received domestic licenses, meaning they will not be eligible for the Caribbean Football Union, Caribbean Cup or the CONCACAF Caribbean Cup if they finish in the top three of the JPL standings at the end of the season.
Each club was required to meet the minimum criteria outlined in the 2018 JFF Club Licensing Regulations.
This season’s achievement of awarding 11 regional licenses marks a significant increase from last season, when only four clubs – Arnett Gardens, Cavalier, Harbour View and Mount Pleasant FA – received regional licenses.
Club licensing, introduced by FIFA, is a key element in promoting the professionalization of football worldwide.
This system is based on principles-driven criteria and establishes minimum standards that clubs must meet to obtain a license and participate in competitions.
The Club Licensing Regulations focus on five key areas: Administration, Sporting, Financial, Infrastructure, and Legal.