FIFA lifts Ngezi Platinum Stars transfer ban

NGEZI Platinum Stars have received a major boost after FIFA officially lifted the club's transfer ban, clearing the way for the Mhondoro-based side to register new players once again.

The former Zimbabwe Premier Soccer League champions were hit with the FIFA sanction after failing to compensate former head coach Benjani Mwaruwari and his assistant, Bongani Mafu, following their dismissal in 2022.

The coaching duo successfully challenged their dismissal, with the dispute eventually escalating to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), which ruled that Ngezi Platinum Stars should compensate the pair nearly US$800,000.

However, the long-running dispute has now been resolved after the parties reached an out-of-court settlement.

A source close to the club said chairman Jeremiah Bamu informed players and supporters on Thursday that FIFA had officially lifted the transfer embargo.

"The chairman announced to the players and fans today that the FIFA ban has been lifted," the source said.

"According to him, the club cleared its issues with Benjani and Bongani out of court."

The lifting of the transfer ban comes as a significant relief for Ngezi Platinum Stars, who have spent the season unable to reinforce their squad in the transfer market because of the sanctions.

Despite the restrictions, the Mhondoro-based outfit has remained competitive throughout the campaign. The club currently occupies fifth place on the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League standings with 42 points, trailing leaders Scottland FC by 11 points.

With the transfer embargo now lifted, Ngezi Platinum Stars can once again participate fully in the transfer market, providing a timely opportunity to strengthen their squad as they push to finish the season strongly.