Hearts of Oak hit with FIFA transfer ban over $150k Hiddink debt

Accra Hearts of Oak Sporting Club has been hit with a player registration ban by FIFA due to unresolved financial obligations owed to former Technical Director Renne Hiddink. 

The sanction, which prevents the club from registering new players domestically or internationally for three transfer windows, follows the club’s failure to settle a debt of $150,000 within a 90-day deadline.

In an official statement released on August 22, 2025, the club acknowledged the FIFA directive and sought to reassure supporters that management is working to resolve the matter.

“FIFA has confirmed the implementation of a registration ban on the club due to unresolved financial obligations. We acknowledge the seriousness of this development and wish to assure our supporters that the Management and Board are actively engaging all relevant parties including the Ghana Football Association and FIFA to resolve the matter swiftly and responsibly,” the statement read.

The club also moved to clarify that the ban would not affect its current squad, confirming that all existing player registrations were completed before the sanction was enforced.

“Importantly, we wish to clarify that our current player registrations had been completed prior to the enforcement of this ban. Therefore, there will be no immediate disruption to our squad or competitive commitments,” the statement added.

Hearts of Oak appealed for calm among its fanbase, emphasising the leadership’s commitment to transparency and stability.

“We understand the concerns this may raise, and we appeal to our Phobian family to remain calm and united. The club’s leadership is fully committed to transparency, accountability, and the long-term stability of Hearts of Oak. Discussions are ongoing, and we are confident that a constructive resolution will be reached.”

The ban presents a significant setback for the club, which has been working to rebuild its squad and re-establish itself as a dominant force in Ghanaian football. The Ghana Football Association has been instructed to enforce the ban at the national level.

FIFA’s action serves as a strong reminder of the global body’s strict stance on financial discipline and contractual compliance within football.