Millions Case Involving Gor Mahia Prompts FIFA Registration Ban
Tunisian giants Etoile du Sahel have been hit with a FIFA transfer registration ban after failing to pay Kenyan champions Gor Mahia KSh5.1 million for the transfer of defender Alphonce Omija Thursday.
The sanction follows a prolonged dispute over the agreed transfer fee, which was supposed to be settled after Omija completed his move to the Tunisian club last year. Gor Mahia have repeatedly pushed for enforcement after months of non-payment.
“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,” read part of the letter sent to both clubs by FIFA as reported by Gor Mahia portal.
The decision means the Tunisian side is now prohibited from registering new players both in domestic competitions and in international transfers until the outstanding debt is fully cleared. FIFA further indicated that the sanction will remain in place for up to three consecutive registration windows if compliance is not achieved promptly.
Omija was a key figure in Gor Mahia’s 2023/2024 FKF Premier League triumph, anchoring a solid defence that played a decisive role in the club’s title success.
His consistency earned him a call-up to the Harambee Stars squad for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN), where he impressed with his defensive awareness, strength, and composure against top continental opposition. His performances reportedly attracted interest from scouts across Africa, culminating in his move to Tunisia.
Omija’s rise from Gor Mahia to the continental stage
Alphonce Omija’s development at Gor Mahia was marked by steady progress and increasing responsibility in the heart of defence. His performances during the title-winning 2023/2024 season made him one of the standout young defenders in the FKF Premier League.
His rise was further highlighted when he earned selection for the Kenyan national team, Harambee Stars, for the 2024 African Nations Championship. Competing against some of Africa’s best locally based talent, Omija demonstrated maturity beyond his years, enhancing his reputation as a promising defensive prospect.
FIFA ruling puts pressure on Étoile du Sahel finances
Etoile Sportive du Sahel remain one of the most successful clubs in African football, with a decorated history that includes domestic league titles and continental trophies such as the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup. However, the current FIFA sanction places them under significant operational pressure.
The transfer ban prevents the club from registering new players in both domestic and international competitions until the debt is cleared. FIFA also confirmed that the restriction could extend to three consecutive transfer windows if the Tunisian side fails to comply.
The ruling is a major win for Gor Mahia, who have pursued the matter since Omija’s departure. Club officials are now awaiting full payment, which would immediately lift the ban and restore Étoile du Sahel’s ability to strengthen their squad.
