Why was Botafogo banned by FIFA?

Botafogo was banned by FIFA in December 2025 for failing to pay the full $21 million transfer fee, plus interest, owed to Atlanta United for Thiago Almada.

What is the outcome of the Thiago Almada transfer dispute?

A settlement was reached on February 7, 2026, requiring Botafogo to pay the full transfer fee and interest to Atlanta United, resolving the dispute.

What did the Court of Arbitration for Sport rule regarding Botafogo's appeal?

The Court of Arbitration for Sport upheld FIFA's ruling, ordering Botafogo to pay the full transfer fee to Atlanta United.

Home / Sports / Late Payment Dispute Lands Botafogo in Transfer Ban

Late Payment Dispute Lands Botafogo in Transfer Ban

7 Feb

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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.

Late Payment Dispute Lands Botafogo in Transfer Ban

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.