Skënderbeu and the transfer window: Here's the real reason FIFA has still not lifted the ban

Skënderbeu remains listed in FIFA's system as a club under a transfer ban, although the club's management still has time to resolve the issue before the close of the summer transfer window.

At present, among Albanian Superliga clubs, only Tirana, Dinamo, and Skënderbeu are under transfer bans. Meanwhile, most of the clubs sanctioned by FIFA compete in the Albanian First and Second Divisions. The latest additions to the list are Dinamo and Kukësi, following decisions issued on August 5 and 6.

Unlike Tirana and Dinamo, which were sanctioned after losing FIFA cases involving former players or staff members, Skënderbeu's situation is related to an administrative issue.

On May 19, 2026, the Korçë-based club was suspended after failing FIFA Clearing House's administrative and financial compliance checks regarding obligations related to player training compensation and solidarity payments.

To have the ban lifted, Skënderbeu must undergo a new assessment by FIFA Clearing House and pay a $5,000 fine. Only after fulfilling these requirements will the club be able to officially register the players signed during the current transfer window.

Although clubs under a transfer ban are still allowed to negotiate and sign contracts with players, those players cannot be officially registered or participate in competitive matches until FIFA approves their registration.

The deadline to resolve these issues is August 31, 2026, while the Albanian championship begins on August 22. If the procedures are delayed, some clubs—including Skënderbeu—risk starting the season without being able to use their new signings, who could remain unavailable until the ban is lifted.

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