Ex-Accra Hearts of Oak Technical Director Rene Hiddink is suing the club in Ghana to get the $146,400 they owe him, after a FIFA ruling.
The Dutch football technician requested the High Court in Tema to allow him to enforce a FIFA arbitral award as a Ghanaian court judgment. The decision stems from the club’s non-compliance with a FIFA ruling on June 24, 2025, requiring Hearts of Oak to pay the sum for breaking a contract.
Theophilus Tawiah Esq., Nobisfields Chambers, filed the application under Section 59 of Ghana’s Alternative Dispute Resolution Act, 2010 (Act 798), according to the court documents. With this, local courts can recognize and enforce foreign arbitration awards, for example, FIFA’s.
Hiddink, hired by Hearts of Oak in late 2022 to offer technical guidance and modern football structures, left the club in mid-2023 amid controversy. Insiders claim the club breached parts of his contract, including unpaid wages, prompting him to go to FIFA.
FIFA ordered the Phobians to pay $146,400 after deciding in his favour. However, since the club hasn’t complied, the Dutchman has sought enforcement through the Ghanaian judicial system.
If the High Court approves Hiddink’s request, the FIFA decision becomes enforceable, enabling him to seize assets or freeze accounts if payment fails.
The hearing is likely in late October 2025, but the exact date is unknown. Hearts of Oak has not made an official comment, but sources suggest the club’s lawyers are preparing a response.