In a recent development, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has dismissed Tema Youth FC’s latest plea for an injunction to prevent their relegation from the Division One League. The club had sought to halt their demotion until CAS renders a final decision in their ongoing case against the Ghana Football Association (GFA).
This decision comes after CAS previously denied Tema Youth FC’s request for a stay of execution regarding the GFA’s Appeals Committee decision. The Appeals Committee had ruled in favor of Young Red Bull FC’s claim for payment from Tema Youth FC regarding the transfer of player Joseph Paintsil. As a result, Tema Youth FC has been suffering a 3-point deduction after each match in accordance with the Disciplinary Code for their refusal to comply with the Appeals Committee’s decision.
The GFA Appeals Committee’s decision, issued on June 11, 2022, ordered Tema Youth FC to make the following payments within 14 working days:
– EUR 688,000 to Young Red Bull FC
– EUR 150,000 to the GFA
– EUR 150,000 to the Ghana League Clubs Association (GHALCA)
Despite Tema Youth FC’s subsequent application to CAS for provisional measures, seeking to halt their relegation pending the final decision in their substantive case, CAS has now dismissed their request. The CAS Panel carefully considered the arguments presented by both Tema Youth FC and the GFA before reaching this decision.
Consequently, Young Red Bull FC will continue their enforcement action against Tema Youth FC for payment, and the club will suffer a 3-point deduction after each match until they fully settle their indebtedness.
This latest CAS ruling highlights the continuing legal and financial challenges faced by Tema Youth FC and underscores the importance of adhering to the decisions of governing bodies within the football community.