The Fédération Congolaise de Football Association (Fecofa) has ruled in favor of TP Mazembe in the case of Chadrac Bingi Belo, confirming the team as champion. The decision was made by Fecofa's Commission de discipline et des compétitions, which declared FC Les Aigles du Congo's appeal receivable but unfounded. This decision was notified to the parties on September 30.
According to Fecofa's communiqué from April 26, 2026, teams were exceptionally allowed to make transfers. The commission found that TP Mazembe did not intentionally try to commit fraud. FC Les Aigles du Congo failed to demonstrate any wrongdoing by TP Mazembe in their defense. As a result, TP Mazembe's championship title stands.
The case began when FC Les Aigles du Congo raised concerns about Chadrac Bingi Belo's eligibility to play for TP Mazembe. Bingi Belo did not have a license issued by Fecofa but played with an identity card. The regulations state that a player belonging to a club must be registered on the FIFA Connect platform, which was not the case for Bingi Belo.
FC Les Aigles du Congo may still pursue the matter through the Tribunal Arbitral du Sport (TAS) as promised by their president, Vidiye Tshimanga. The team had introduced a reserve after their match against TP Mazembe, questioning Bingi Belo's eligibility. The Fecofa decision brings an end to the dispute, unless FC Les Aigles du Congo decides to appeal further.
The Fecofa decision brings clarity to the championship title, which was potentially at risk due to the eligibility concerns surrounding Bingi Belo. TP Mazembe can now proceed with their championship celebrations without uncertainty. The decision also highlights the importance of adhering to Fecofa regulations and ensuring player eligibility.
The case highlights the complexities of football regulations and the need for clear communication between teams, players, and governing bodies. Fecofa's role in resolving disputes and maintaining fair play is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the sport. The decision will have implications for future cases involving player eligibility and team disputes.
The outcome of the case will be closely watched by football fans and teams in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The Fecofa decision demonstrates the organization's commitment to upholding regulations and ensuring fair play. As the football season progresses, teams will need to ensure compliance with regulations to avoid similar disputes.
Key points
- Fecofa confirms TP Mazembe as champion, rejecting FC Les Aigles du Congo's appeal.
- The case involved concerns over Chadrac Bingi Belo's eligibility to play for TP Mazembe.
- FC Les Aigles du Congo may still appeal to the Tribunal Arbitral du Sport (TAS).
