In an era of globalization and international mobility, the UK tax system has come under the spotlight for its distinct treatment of foreign sportspeople and entertainers who visit its shores. While the majority of non-UK residents working in the UK typically avoid tax liabilities, the same courtesy isn’t extended to sports and entertainment professionals.
Historically, the UK was a pioneer in implementing unique tax rules for visiting athletes and artists. Now, if an individual or entity compensates a sportsperson or entertainer to make an appearance in the UK, they must withhold basic rate income tax if the gross annual payment goes beyond £12,570 ($16,000) for the fiscal year 2023-24.
Furthermore, these professionals face more significant tax implications if their net profits exceed the basic rate band, which starts at £50,000. This scenario demands them to register for self-assessment, file a UK tax return, and potentially be subjected to escalating income tax rates. After deducting business expenses, they’re subjected to a 20% basic rate, a 40% higher rate, and a whopping 45% on income beyond £125,140.
There’s a glimmer of hope, though. Taxable individuals can potentially reclaim some or all of the 20% withholding tax through allowable deductions like travel, coaching, and accommodation expenses. Furthermore, the UK’s HM Revenue & Customs’ foreign entertainers‘ unit provides a recourse where tax can be levied on anticipated net profits instead of the overall appearance fee. This could significantly improve the cashflow situation for many professionals.
Interestingly, while most countries tax only the direct income from appearance fees or prize money, the UK diverges again. It seeks a slice of the pie from the global endorsement income related to an individual’s UK performances. The taxing mechanism is intricate. HMRC provides two primary methods: the Relevant Performance Days (RPD) or the Relevant Performance and Training Days (RPTD). The approach used determines how much of an athlete’s worldwide endorsement income falls under the UK tax net. Given the intricacies, many professionals rely on a detailed diary to log their global movements, which can be crucial when HMRC demands evidence of worldwide training days.
But these tax rules haven’t escaped criticism. Renowned figures like Usain Bolt, Roger Federer, and Rafael Nadal have adjusted their schedules, sometimes sidestepping the UK altogether. This is because the tax implications can be daunting. For instance, a tennis player ousted in Wimbledon’s first round might earn around £55,000. However, when factoring in their global endorsement income, they might leave the UK with a net loss, despite their earnings.
In one such hypothetical scenario, the UK income tax could almost equate to the entirety of the prize money earned. After deducting expenses, the effective tax rate can exceed 123%, leaving an athlete with a significant financial deficit. And while some professionals can offset these taxes against their home country’s tax liabilities, those hailing from low-tax jurisdictions like Monaco find little relief. The outcome? A considerable squandering of foreign tax credits.
Despite this stringent approach, the UK has shown flexibility when it matters most. During bidding wars for significant sporting events, such as the Olympics or the Champions League Final, tax exemptions emerge as a powerful bargaining chip. Bodies like the International Olympic Committee have been promised full tax exemptions for athletes and other personnel throughout competitions by host countries. The objective? Ensure that major sporting events find their way to British soil.
While some athletes might perceive these tax rules as cumbersome or even deterrent, those seeking guidance might find solace by consulting a qualified tax professional. As the world continues to evolve and international events become more frequent, it remains to be seen if the UK will adjust its tax stance to be more inclusive. Only time will tell.
