Aymen Harzi Eligibility Row: Will Club Africain Lose Points? LNFP Decision & TAS Appeal

The 2025-2026 Tunisian Ligue 1 season is facing a decisive legal moment that could alter the course of the title race. The core of the controversy is the eligibility of Aymen Harzi to play for Club Africain. As the club climbs to the top of the table alongside Esperance, legal challenges from CA Bizerte (CAB) and CS Sfaxien (CSS) threaten to strip them of crucial points.

Legal Intricacies: The Effective Date Clause

The dispute stems from Harzi’s transfer from US Monastir to Club Africain on January 27, 2026. A specific contractual clause delayed the start of his new tenure. Legally, “a contract is the law of the parties.” This meant Harzi was still officially registered with Monastir during their match against Olympique Beja. Club Africain’s legal team argues that since Monastir paid the yellow card fines—a payment accepted by the League—the player’s suspension was lawfully served before he debuted for the Red and Whites.

The Opposition’s Challenge

CAB and CSS argue that the suspension was not served correctly, claiming Harzi was “legally ineligible” during that period. This has sparked a fierce debate over the transparency of local regulations. Some analysts view this as a strategic move to disrupt Club Africain’s momentum during a critical phase of the playoffs.

Final Resolution: Voting and Swiss Arbitration

While the League initially dismissed the complaints on February 12, 2026, the Appeals Committee is now under immense pressure. Leaks suggest that if a legal consensus isn’t reached, a vote may be held to decide the outcome. Regardless of the local verdict, the case is destined for the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne, Switzerland. The final ranking of the Tunisian league might remain unofficial until the Swiss court delivers its definitive ruling.