Pau FC has seen the contract of new striker Royce Openda remain blocked, FIFA keeping its recruitment ban in place. The Gabonese forward, arriving after a brilliant season at Bordeaux, cannot play while the sanction stands.

Why is Openda’s contract not being registered?

The club was penalised after failing to pay €130,000 owed to a former player who never wore the Pau shirt. FIFA therefore imposed a three‑window recruitment ban. Despite the arrivals of Babacar Leye, Rony Mimb and Openda, the LFP cannot validate any new contract until the ban is lifted. Sporting director Romain Molina notes that “the LFP cannot homologate contracts while FIFA maintains the prohibition.”

What actions are being taken?

Pau FC has taken the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to challenge the decision. Unlike Bordeaux, which secured a lift through the French FA and then FIFA, the Béarn club is still awaiting the CAS ruling. If the tribunal upholds the ban, players signed during the prohibited period will remain ineligible, forcing the club to rethink its squad plan.

How does this affect the current campaign?

Pau FC sits 9th in Ligue 2 with 45 points (12 wins, 9 draws, 13 losses) and a recent form of LLLWW. The team has scored 48 goals and conceded 62, a –14 goal difference. At 22 points behind leaders ESTAC Troyes, every point matters, and Openda’s absence could hinder the push for a higher finish.

What lies ahead?

Should CAS rule in FIFA’s favour, Pau FC will need to explore other ways to boost its attack, perhaps via loans or free agents. If the ban is lifted, Openda’s contract will be validated, giving the club a significant offensive weapon for the remainder of the season. An official club statement is expected by week’s end.

In short, Openda’s fate now rests with the CAS decision, while Pau FC continues to juggle administrative constraints and sporting ambitions.