Ghanaian giants Hearts of Oak hit with transfer ban by FIFA

Ghana Premier League giants, Hearts of Oak, have been slapped with a three-transfer window ban after failing to comply with FIFA’s directive to settle an outstanding debt to former Technical Director Rene Hiddink.

The ban, which prevents Hearts of Oak from registering new players both domestically and internationally, will remain in effect for up to three consecutive transfer periods unless the debt is fully settled.

The sanction comes after FIFA’s Legal and Compliance Division issued a letter on August 21, confirming that the club had not complied with an earlier ruling to compensate Hiddink for wrongful termination of his contract. The Dutch tactician, who was hired in July 2023 on a three-year deal, was dismissed after just eight months. This prompted the 70-year-old to seek redress at FIFA.

The 2000 CAF Champions League winners owe the Dutchman $150,000 over the unlawful termination of his contract. And the Phobians had been directed to settle the debt in 30 days, but have now defaulted, resulting in the ban.

FIFA has also instructed the Ghana Football Association to enforce the ban at the national level.

The letter, addressed to Hearts of Oak, reads: “In this regard, we wish to inform the parties that a ban from registering new players internationally and nationally has been implemented by FIFA on the Respondent. The registration ban will remain active until the amount due is paid and for a maximum duration of up to three entire and consecutive registration periods.”

The transfer ban latest threatens to derail Hearts of Oak’s ambitions for the upcoming 2025-26 Ghana Premier League season. Unable to sign or register new players, the club finds its squad-building plans at a complete standstill, leaving them with a major challenge to assemble a competitive team.

THE LETTER FROM FIFA