FIFA’s Administrative Error Sparks Hope for Esteghlal’s Transfer Ban Appeal
A Case of Mistaken Identity
A significant administrative error by FIFA has introduced a new twist in the ongoing saga surrounding Iranian football club Esteghlal’s transfer ban. The controversy stems from the club’s unilateral termination of a contract with player Montazer Mohammad, which led to FIFA imposing a two-transfer-window ban on the club.
The Core of the Mix-Up
Recent developments reveal that the initial inquiry from FIFA, which triggered the investigation, contained a critical error. According to a spokesperson for the Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI), FIFA’s International Relations department sent an inquiry on May 3, 2024, regarding the status of a player named Mostafa Mohammad, a former player of Mes Rafsanjan.
The FFIRI responded on May 7, 2024, clarifying that the named individual had no registered contract or history with Esteghlal and that his contract was only registered with Mes Rafsanjan from February 25, 2023, until the end of the 2022-2023 season. In essence, FIFA had inquired about the wrong player, while the disciplinary case involved Montazer Mohammad.
A Glimmer of Hope for Esteghlal
This administrative confusion has become a pivotal point for Esteghlal’s appeal. While the club’s initial contract termination with Montazer Mohammad was deemed a violation, the fact that the process was initiated based on an incorrect player inquiry from FIFA provides new legal ground.
Football analysts suggest that this error could form the basis of a strong appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). Esteghlal’s legal team is now expected to formally highlight FIFA’s procedural mistake in their defense, arguing that it fundamentally impacted the case. This development has renewed optimism within the club, offering a credible path to potentially overturn or reduce the transfer ban. While the final outcome rests with the CAS, the procedural misstep has undoubtedly improved Esteghlal’s prospects in the ongoing legal battle.