The Arbitration Board, established as part of the Collective Agreement between the Italian Football Federation, the Serie A League and the Italian Footballers' Association, issued the final award today, 16 October, against Lameck Banda, Zambian striker of the Libyan club Al-Swehly Sports Club. The decision, which is part of a dispute already initiated by Lecce, provides for a maxi-fine of 256,250 euros for the player, as well as the suspension of any further ongoing legal action.
According to the judgement, Banda's employment relationship with the Salento club was scheduled until 30 June 2027. However, from 1 July 2026 the player no longer made his sporting energies available, refusing call-ups and interrupting his professional commitment. The Board therefore considered that the player had committed a serious breach of contract, configuring the violation of the provisions of the Collective Agreement. Consequently, the disciplinary sanction consists of a fine of 256,250 euros, which the club and the player will have to pay within the established deadlines.
The request for compensation for damages, still pending with the competent authorities, concerns the damage suffered by Lecce due to Banda's sudden departure. At the same time, FIFA initiated proceedings against the player and Al‑Swehly Sports Club for termination without just cause, with the aim of obtaining compensation for damages and imposing the disciplinary sanctions provided for by international law. The procedure aims to protect both the club and the player, ensuring compliance with contractual rules at a global level.
Lecce, who suffered the loss of a key striker, expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the proceedings, underlining the importance of enforcing contractual clauses and protecting the club's interests. The work of the Arbitration Panel was welcomed positively by the club, which declared that it considered it a fundamental step to guarantee discipline and fairness in Italian football.
For now, Banda will have to settle the fine within the deadline indicated by the College. Meanwhile, the damages proceedings remain ongoing, with FIFA continuing to monitor the situation. Lecce, for its part, is preparing to put its squad back on the field, trying to fill the void left by Banda's exit, while the Libyan club Al-Swehly Sports Club will have to face the disciplinary and legal consequences resulting from the Board's decision.