Ouaddou’s Payment Battle Reaches Two Years

Ouaddou’s R11.5 Million Payday: Two Years Later, Pirates Coach Still Waiting For AS Vita Financial SettlementOrlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou is approaching another significant milestone in his long-running financial dispute with former club AS Vita, with the Moroccan tactician still waiting for a resolution nearly two years after filing his claim.

The situation has attracted attention in South African football because of the substantial amount of money involved and the lengthy process surrounding the dispute.

Ouaddou, who previously worked with Congolese giants AS Vita, has been seeking compensation following his departure from the club. His outstanding financial claim has reportedly been valued at approximately R11.5 million, making it one of the more notable coaching-related disputes involving a South African-based football figure.

The matter dates back to his spell in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where his relationship with AS Vita eventually ended in circumstances that led to a financial disagreement.

For the former Moroccan international, the issue has become a lengthy wait for money he believes he is entitled to receive.

The latest developments have significantly changed the situation.

In July 2026, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruled in Ouaddou’s favour, ordering AS Vita to pay him €612,227.30, equivalent to approximately R11.5 million.

€157,000 in outstanding salaries and bonuses.

€453,250 in compensation for wrongful termination.

CAS also ordered AS Vita to contribute 3,000 Swiss francs towards Ouaddou’s legal expenses and cover two-thirds of the arbitration costs.

The ruling followed a complaint Ouaddou lodged on 18 November 2024 after his contract was terminated on 11 January 2024. CAS found that the club had ended the agreement without just cause.

However, winning the legal battle has not automatically put the money into the coach’s bank account.

The Congolese club has reportedly struggled to comply with the financial ruling, with administrative instability and leadership disagreements adding to its difficulties.

AS Vita has also faced a registration ban since May 2026 because of its failure to settle the outstanding obligations. Reports indicate that the club’s financial difficulties and internal leadership uncertainty have complicated efforts to arrange payment.

Meanwhile, the Moroccan tactician has an important responsibility at Orlando Pirates, where supporters expect him to continue delivering competitive performances across domestic and continental competitions.

His dispute with AS Vita is separate from his current coaching responsibilities, and there is no indication that it has affected his commitment to the Buccaneers.

Nevertheless, the situation highlights the importance of contractual agreements and financial accountability in African football.

For Ouaddou, the CAS ruling has established his entitlement to substantial compensation. The remaining challenge is ensuring that the former employer fulfils its financial obligations.

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