FIFA ends investigation into Aaron Boupendza's transfer to Rapid Bucharest

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FIFA has officially ended its investigation into Aaron Boupendza's controversial transfer to Rapid Bucharest, citing the player's death as a determining factor in the termination.

The 28-year-old Gabonese international striker died on April 16 in Zhejiang, China after falling from the 11th floor of a residential building. His death sent shockwaves through the football community, particularly in Gabon, where Boupendza had long been considered one of the national team's brightest talents.

Chinese authorities, who responded quickly to the scene, have ruled out any criminal involvement. "Following a thorough investigation, including video analysis and on-site assessments, we concluded that the individual fell from the balcony of a rented apartment. No foul play is suspected," read a statement from the local police. Although the precise cause has not been publicly confirmed, suicide remains the leading theory.

Boupendza's football career began with CF Mounana in Gabon before moving to France in 2016 to join Bordeaux. He then played in several countries, including Turkey, where he had an exceptional season with Hatayspor in 2020-21, scoring 22 goals in the Süper Lig. His career then included stints in Romania with Rapid Bucharest and in the United States with FC Cincinnati.

At the time of his death, Boupendza was at the center of a legal dispute involving Egyptian club Zamalek. After leaving FC Cincinnati, the striker reportedly agreed to join Zamalek and obtained his International Transfer Certificate (ITC) from the U.S. Soccer Federation. His signing was officially announced by the Cairo-based club on September 8, 2024. However, in an unexpected development, just five days later, Boupendza signed with Rapid Bucharest.

This abrupt reversal infuriated Zamalek, who filed a complaint with FIFA, claiming breach of contract and seeking more than €2.5 million in damages. FIFA began investigating the matter but has now informed Zamalek SC that the case will not proceed further due to the player's untimely death. According to Egyptian media reports, world football's governing body has officially notified the Cairo club that the case is closed.

The conclusion of the case leaves Zamalek SC without recourse, as FIFA should not pursue financial or contractual claims against a deceased player. This decision, while legally understandable, reportedly left the Egyptian side frustrated by the unresolved financial implications of the failed transfer.

EDITOR NOTE: This article is translated from the original written in French by Ablam Gnamesso for Pan-Africa Football.