FIFA orders Lucas Ribeiro to pay Mamelodi Sundowns $4m over contract breach

Espérance de Tunis forward Lucas Ribeiro has been ordered by FIFA to pay former club Mamelodi Sundowns US$4 million following a dispute over his contract.

The ruling has been upheld after Ribeiro’s appeal against the initial decision was rejected, leaving the South African club entitled to the compensation awarded by football’s world governing body.

Ribeiro has now been given 45 days to settle the outstanding amount with Sundowns.

The dispute relates to the Brazilian’s contractual obligations during his time with the reigning South African champions. FIFA’s decision means the financial award remains in force despite Ribeiro’s attempt to challenge the ruling.

Should Ribeiro fail to make the required payment within the 45-day period, he could face further disciplinary measures from FIFA.

One possible consequence is a ban from taking part in football-related activities, which could prevent him from being registered or playing for a club until the matter is resolved.

The ruling could therefore have implications for Ribeiro’s immediate future at Espérance de Tunis, where he currently plays.

Sundowns have maintained their claim throughout the dispute, and the rejection of Ribeiro’s appeal represents a significant development in the case.

FIFA’s disciplinary framework allows sanctions to be imposed when a party fails to comply with a financial decision. The precise nature and duration of any additional sanction would depend on FIFA’s enforcement process if the 45-day deadline expires without payment.

Ribeiro joined Espérance after leaving Sundowns and has continued his career in Tunisia, but the FIFA ruling means the contractual dispute with his former club remains unresolved.

For now, the player has 45 days to comply with the order and avoid further sanctions.