Tim Sukazi confirms fresh TS Galaxy FIFA ban

The ban stems from a case lodged by Morris at the FIFA tribunal, where he is claiming unfair dismissal after his move to The Rockets failed to materialise in August 2024 – Morris’ registration was blocked after South African authorities declined to issue him with a work permit.

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Despite not featuring for the club, Morris has since approached world football’s governing body in an effort to compel Galaxy to pay a settlement, resulting in FIFA sanctioning Galaxy for three windows.

The sanction will remain in place until Galaxy either settle the outstanding claim or pay the amount determined by FIFA.

Speaking to SABC Sport on Thursday, Sukazi outlined the club’s position and the circumstances that led to the dispute.

“The issue we have now with FIFA relates to a Liberian player whose work permit application was declined by the Department of Home Affairs which is a situation completely out of our control.

“This player became impatient and left the country despite us having appealed the declination of his work permit with the Department. He got back to Liberia and the first thing he did was to lodge a case with FIFA,” said Sukazi.

He explained that Galaxy were clear from the outset that Morris’ contract was conditional upon the successful issuance of a valid South African work permit.

According to Sukazi, that condition was never fulfilled, rendering the agreement null and void in the club’s view, regardless of any negotiations or documentation that may have been signed.

“Despite having made his contract subject to the issuance of his work permit by the Department, FIFA insisted that the issuance of the work permit is the Club’s responsibility. This is not entirely true because it is the Government that approves or declines work permit applications,” added Sukazi.

However, FIFA have not accepted Galaxy’s interpretation of the matter.

Galaxy, who have previously endured similar administrative challenges, now face further restrictions on their ability to strengthen their squad while the matter remains unresolved.