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FIFA Ban Botafogo Over Unpaid Almada Transfer Fee
7 Feb
Summary
- Botafogo owes Atlanta United $21 million for Thiago Almada transfer.
- FIFA imposed a three-window transfer ban on Botafogo in December 2025.
- A settlement was reached, ensuring Botafogo pays the full fee plus interest.
Botafogo faces a significant sanction after failing to meet its financial obligations for the $21 million transfer of Thiago Almada from Atlanta United.
The Brazilian club, owned by John Textor, was ordered by FIFA to pay the outstanding installments and interest related to Almada's transfer in the summer of 2024.
Botafogo's appeals to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) were unsuccessful, and the situation escalated when FIFA imposed a three-window transfer ban on the club in December 2025.
However, Atlanta United announced on February 7, 2026, that a settlement has been reached. Botafogo will now pay the full transfer fee, including interest, adhering to the original agreement.
Thiago Almada, a 2022 World Cup winner with Argentina, had moved from Atlanta United after a record MLS transfer. He has since played for multiple clubs, including a brief spell at Botafogo before loan moves.
