Legal standoff looms as DR Congo’s Linafoot refuses CAS decision

DR Congo’s Linafoot says it will not accept the decision taken by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) regarding the resumption of the 2024/25 season playoffs.

The league ended the playoffs without completing the second-round matches, with Aigles du Congo being crowned champions.

Linafoot side TP Mazembe took the case to CAS following the DR Congolese Football Federation’s (FECOFA) decision to prematurely end the league. The Lubumbashi giants missed out on a CAF Champions League spot because the season concluded with several rounds still to play.

According to Foot RDC, Linafoot cited logistical and administrative constraints, as well as the release of players by clubs for their scheduled rest, as reasons for not enforcing the CAS ruling.

CAS had ordered the league to resume before July 31, but another legal battle now appears to be looming. Aigles du Congo, FC Saint Éloi Lupopo, and AS Maniema Union will represent DR Congo in CAF club competitions unless the CAS ruling is implemented.

TP Mazembe are expected to lodge another complaint in the case, as defying CAS could have serious consequences in the league and federation.