Lucas Ribeiro challenges Sundowns and takes his case to FIFA!

Africa 21 August 2025 at 09:00

Mohamed Rek

News Editor

Brazilian forward Lucas Ribeiro Costa is now locked in an open dispute with his club, Mamelodi Sundowns, after officially bringing his case to the FIFA Football Tribunal, seeking a unilateral termination of his contract.

The 26-year-old attacker recently stopped training, eager for a fresh challenge following the collapse of his transfers to Qatar SC and Fluminense.


According to South African outlet iDiski Times, Ribeiro believes he has a solid legal basis to break his contract and has vowed to present his evidence before FIFA.

Ribeiro turns to FIFA to terminate his contract!

The same source reports that Sundowns had received a significant offer from Qatar SC, but management reportedly set financial demands considered excessive, prompting Ribeiro to escalate the matter to FIFA.

In his statements, he declared:

“I am convinced of my right to terminate my contract and I will prove it before FIFA. Even if my request is not accepted, FIFA regulations allow me to continue my career without obstacles, relying on the European Court of Justice's ruling in the Diarra case.”

He added:

“I have offers from clubs in Europe and elsewhere, and I will choose what best serves my career and development, always keeping my family's future in mind.”

Let’s recall that Ribeiro is still under contract with Sundowns until 2028. With the South African champions, he has made 88 appearances and scored 37 goals, but his future with the club now appears increasingly uncertain.

The hidden reasons behind Lucas Ribeiro’s departure from the Mamelodi Sundowns’ camp!