Etoile Sportive du Sahel have been sanctioned by FIFA with a three-window registration ban after failing to settle outstanding payments linked to the transfer of Alphonce Omija.
In a disciplinary communication dated 30 April 2026 and issued through FIFA’s legal portal, the governing body confirmed that the Tunisian club remains in breach of financial obligations arising from the defender’s move from Gor Mahia FC.
FIFA stated that despite a prior ruling in the case, referenced as FDD-27571, Etoile du Sahel has not complied with the order to complete payment to the Kenyan side.
As a result, the club is now prohibited from registering new players, both domestically and internationally, for up to three consecutive transfer windows.
The sanction will remain in place until the outstanding amount is paid in full, with FIFA indicating that the measure is intended to enforce compliance with financial regulations and uphold the integrity of transfer agreements.
The governing body has also instructed the Tunisian Football Federation to implement the ban immediately at national level, emphasising that it must be enforced without delay.
The dispute centres on Omija’s transfer, completed in September, with Gor Mahia still awaiting full payment from the Tunisian club.
The ruling places Etoile du Sahel under increased pressure, as the inability to register new players could have significant sporting implications if the matter is not resolved quickly.
Unless the financial obligations are met, the club risks entering future transfer windows without the ability to strengthen their squad, a situation that could impact their competitiveness in domestic and continental competitions.
FIFA’s decision highlights its continued efforts to ensure clubs adhere to contractual agreements, particularly in cross-border transfers, where disputes over payments can affect multiple parties.
For Etoile du Sahel, resolving the issue promptly will be crucial to avoiding prolonged restrictions and restoring normal operations in the transfer market.
