Chippa break silence on FIFA ban as Vilakazi rallies troops

Chippa United have broken their silence regarding the FIFA-imposed transfer ban first reported by FARPost, characterising the sanction as an “ongoing administrative matter” that is being addressed in good spirit.

In a formal statement released on Monday, the Gqeberha-based outfit confirmed that the world football governing body has prohibited the club from registering new players due to an outstanding debt involving former coach Luc Eymael. While the club maintains a “positive and professional understanding” with the Belgian tactician, they disclosed that approximately R200,000 remains to be settled.

THE AUGUST DEADLINE FOR CHIPPA

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— Chippa United FC (@ChippaUnitedFC) April 13, 2026

Crucially, the Chilli Boys have clarified that they have been granted until the next registration window in August to finalise the payment and lift the ban. The club hierarchy insists the legal impasse will not spill over onto the pitch, stating emphatically that the matter “does not impact the club’s football operations” as they plan for the 2026/27 season.

This official clarification follows a period of uncertainty after the FIFA Disciplinary Committee moved to impose the restriction following a failed 45-day ultimatum issued back in February.

VILAKAZI: ‘I FOCUS ON THE FOUR LINES’

While the board manages the financial fallout, head coach Vusumuzi Vilakazi has remained resolute, insisting that the off-field drama will not derail their fight for Betway Premiership survival. Speaking after Chippa’s 1-1 draw against Polokwane City on Saturday, “Kanu” maintained that his current roster is more than capable of avoiding the drop.

“That’s not my department; I only focus on the four lines,” Vilakazi told journalists. “Whether there is a ban or no ban, I am happy with the players that I have now. I still feel that we will definitely run away from relegation or playoffs with these players.”

Despite the news sending ripples through South African football, Vilakazi admitted that he had not been personally briefed by the club’s leadership prior to the public emergence of the ban.

“Other issues I cannot entertain because I don’t know about them. Nobody spoke to me about such things, not even the chairman himself,” he added.

With the business end of the season approaching and only five games remaining, the coach’s public display of faith in his current squad suggests that the Chilli Boys are prepared to fight with the resources already in the building. The club has urged supporters to “stand firm” as they navigate the final sprint of the campaign.

CHIPPA’S FULL STATEMENT

“Chippa United FC notes recent reports regarding matter involving FIFA Ban,” reads the statement. 

“The Club would like to clarify that this is an ongoing administrative matter, currently being addressed in good spirit between the Club and Mr Luc Nico Eymael. There remains a positive and professional understanding between both parties as efforts continue to bring the matter to a close.

“The outstanding amount is approximately R200,000, and the Club has been granted until the next registration window period in August to settle the matter. This process is being managed accordingly and will be settled as we plan for the following season.

“This matter does not impact the Club’s football operations.

“At present, the Club’s full focus remains on the remaining 5 games of the season, with attention directed towards achieving positive results. And encourage all our supporters to stand firm behind the Chilli Boys.”