Mamelodi Sundowns star bids farewell amid contract dispute

Lucas Ribeiro Costa. Photo credit: Mamelodi Sundowns

Mamelodi Sundowns star bids farewell amid contract dispute

Mamelodi Sundowns star Lucas Ribeiro Costa has all but confirmed his departure from the Tshwane giants, posting an emotional farewell message to fans and teammates on his official Instagram platform.

The Brazilian expressed his regret that his exit could not have been under better circumstances, stating, “I wish I could’ve said goodbye in a better way.”

The 26-year-old has been absent from Sundowns training since the start of the new 2025/26 season. This comes after Ribeiro Costa reportedly requested to terminate his contract.

Ribeiro had been linked with a move to Qatar SC, with sources suggesting the Qatari club had made a “particularly generous transfer offer” for the player. However, a deal never materialised, and the matter is now reportedly heading to legal arbitration.

Ribeiro and his agency, Dupont-Hissel, have decided to take the dispute to the FIFA Tribunal, the Court of Arbitration for Sport, and potentially a competent state court. The law firm is notably the same one that handled the high-profile ‘Diarra Ruling.’

Emotional Goodbye by Ribeiro Costa

In his heartfelt message on Monday, Ribeiro reflected on his time in South Africa, thanking fans, coaches, and teammates.

“From the very first day I arrived, I gave my all, on and off the field, to earn my place and proudly defend Mamelodi Sundowns,” he wrote. “These past two years have been incredible, full of emotions. I have learned so much from this beautiful culture—not only to become a better player but also a better human being.”

He extended a special thank you to the club’s supporters. “To my wonderful Masandawana supporters, first of all, thank you for everything. I want you to know that your support and love meant so much to me, and I will never forget you. I will always carry in my heart the memories of the emotions I lived, the goals, the assists, the trophies, and the magical nights with you that made me feel at home.”

He concluded by expressing his gratitude to the club and his teammates, whom he referred to as his “second family.” “Playing for Sundowns and living this beautiful culture has been such a great honor for me. I will truly miss it. Thank yo,u South Africa. Thank you, Mamelodi Sundowns, for everything. With much love, Ribeiro #10.”