Lumwana Radiants Hit with FIFA Transfer Ban Over Contract Disputes

Zambian side Lumwana Radiants have been banned by FIFA from registering new players for three consecutive transfer windows, a punishment that will last until January 2027, due to the club’s failure to fulfil contractual obligations.

The sanction, confirmed by the world football governing body, is a major blow to the North-Western-based outfit, who will now be forced to rely on their current squad for the foreseeable future.

FIFA Cracks Down on Contractual Non-Compliance

According to FIFA, Lumwana Radiants violated key regulations concerning player contracts, prompting the governing body to enforce disciplinary action aimed at protecting the rights of players. The ban prohibits the club from registering any new players—locally or internationally—until the January 2027 window.

This decision leaves Lumwana in a precarious position, especially as they continue their campaign in the National Division One League, where depth and reinforcements can often prove decisive.

Recent Precedent: Indeni FC Faced Similar Ban

Lumwana Radiants are not the first Zambian club to face such a ban. Relegated Indeni FC were previously hit with a similar punishment by FIFA and have now completed two consecutive registration windows without signing players.

The Ndola-based club, now preparing for the upcoming transfer window, will finally be eligible to register new players, having served their suspension in full.

Implications for Lumwana Radiants

The ban is expected to disrupt Lumwana Radiants’ rebuilding efforts, particularly if the team harboured ambitions of returning to the MTN Super League in the near future. Without the ability to add new talent, technical staff will be forced to innovate using available resources.

FIFA has maintained its stance in recent years on enforcing strict compliance with player contracts, and this ruling is another strong reminder to clubs across the continent.