Former TP Mazembe forward Fily Traoré hit with ban and heavy fine following exit

A major ruling from FIFA’s Football Tribunal has rocked African football, with Malian forward Fily Traoré handed a four-month suspension and ordered to pay a significant financial penalty following his controversial departure from TP Mazembe.

The dispute stems from Traoré’s move to Libyan side Swehly Club, a transfer the tribunal determined constituted a breach of contract.

As a result, the striker must pay $138,225.81 in compensation to Mazembe, along with an additional 5% annual interest until the amount is fully settled.

Beyond the financial hit, Traoré will also serve a four-month ban from all official matches, although the off-season period will not count toward the suspension. Swehly Club announced on their social media channels that they will appeal the decision.

The ruling further stipulates that failure to comply with payment within 30 days could trigger enforcement measures from FIFA, potentially escalating the situation.

Traoré had attempted to counter the claim, but his appeal was dismissed, handing a decisive legal victory to TP Mazembe. The Congolese giants successfully proved that the player’s exit violated contractual obligations, reinforcing their stance in protecting club agreements.

This case serves as a strong warning across the football landscape, underlining the legal and financial consequences players may face when contracts are breached without proper procedure.