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FIFA's Transfer Fee Ruling Overturned Amid Sanctions Dispute

12/5/2025

Summary

Story summary

Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) pressured European clubs to pay outstanding transfer fees to Russian teams despite international sanctions.
Since Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, FIFA has ruled on 13 cases involving clubs claiming payments.
West Ham United was ordered to pay CSKA Moscow approximately $28 million, despite arguing that sanctions made payment impossible.
The Court of Arbitration for Sport overturned FIFA's ruling.

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Story summary

Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) pressured European clubs to pay outstanding transfer fees to Russian teams despite international sanctions.
Since Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, FIFA has ruled on 13 cases involving clubs claiming payments.
West Ham United was ordered to pay CSKA Moscow approximately $28 million, despite arguing that sanctions made payment impossible.
The Court of Arbitration for Sport overturned FIFA's ruling.