Bandari hit with FIFA transfer ban
Reading Time: 2min | Wed. 17.06.26. | 08:12
FIFA has also directed the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) to ensure immediate domestic enforcement of the ruling
Mozzart Bet Cup second runners-up Bandari FC have been hit with a FIFA-imposed transfer registration ban after failing to settle financial obligations owed to former head coach Mohamed Borji, following a dispute ruled on by FIFA’s Players’ Status Chamber.
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The Moroccan tactician, appointed in October 2025 on a one-year deal to replace Ken Odhiambo, lasted just two months in charge at the Mombasa-based club before parting ways in what was initially described as a mutual termination agreement.
However, the matter later escalated to FIFA after Borji claimed the club had not fully honoured his contract.
FIFA reviewed the case and ruled partially in favour of the coach, ordering Bandari to pay USD6,483.87 (about Ksh837,067) in outstanding remuneration and USD 22,500 (about Ksh2.9 million) as compensation for breach of contract, with all other claims dismissed.
In its decision, FIFA’s Players’ Status Chamber stressed the club’s obligation to comply, stating: “Bandari has not yet complied with its financial obligations towards Mohamed Borji.”
The ruling further warned that failure to pay within the stipulated period would carry serious consequences, including a transfer embargo. FIFA noted that a ban would prevent the club from registering players “internationally and nationally” for up to three consecutive registration periods if the debt remained unsettled.
In a subsequent enforcement letter referencing case FPSD-23074, FIFA confirmed the sanction has now been activated, stating: “A ban from registering new players internationally and nationally has been implemented.”
The letter further clarified the duration of the punishment, adding that the restriction “will remain active until the amount due is paid and for a maximum duration of up to three entire and consecutive registration periods.”
FIFA has also directed the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) to ensure immediate domestic enforcement of the ruling, instructing that a national transfer ban be applied if not already in place.
However, the sanction remains conditional under FIFA regulations, meaning it can be lifted once Bandari clears the outstanding debt, including any applicable interest.
Borji’s brief tenure at Bandari saw him oversee six matches, recording one win, two defeats and three draws before his departure.
The club later appointed Bernard Mwalala, who has shown slight improvement in results, though inconsistency continued to define their season, with the club drawing 17 of their 34 league games.