The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has provisionally lifted the three-year ban imposed on former Asante Kotoko and Karela United striker Solomon Safo Taylor by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) Disciplinary Committee.
This decision paves the way for the player to resume his professional football career pending the final outcome of his appeal.
The ban, handed down on April 15, 2024, stemmed from allegations of double registration and falsification of documents. The GFA Disciplinary Committee found the 26-year-old guilty of discrepancies in his registration details, leading to his suspension from all football activities. The ruling also put Safo Taylor’s contract with Asante Kotoko at risk, as the club lodged protests against the player over inconsistencies in his documentation.
However, following an appeal filed by Safo Taylor on November 6, 2024, under case CAS 2024/A/10983, the CAS ruled in his favor on December 4, 2024. Signed by Dr. Elisabeth Steiner, Deputy President of the CAS Appeals Arbitration Division, the decision outlined the following provisional measures:
- Approval of Provisional Measures: Safo Taylor’s request for interim relief was granted.
- Lifting of the Ban: The GFA’s three-year suspension, confirmed by its Appeals Committee on May 29, 2024, has been provisionally lifted.
- Reinstatement of Player License: Safo Taylor’s player license has been restored, allowing him to participate in football activities.
- Costs Determination: The costs of the current order will be settled in the final arbitration ruling.
This ruling allows Safo Taylor to continue his football career as he awaits a final determination on the matter. It also comes as a significant relief for the player and his supporters, who have been advocating for his reinstatement.
The GFA is yet to issue an official response to the CAS decision.
