Former Accra Hearts of Oak Technical Director Rene Hiddink has officially taken legal action in Ghana to recover a whopping $146,400 owed to him by the club, following a ruling by FIFA earlier this year.
The Dutchman, who previously worked behind the scenes with the Phobians, has filed a motion at the High Court in Tema, seeking permission to enforce a FIFA arbitral award as a Ghanaian court judgment.
The award, handed down by the FIFA Players’ Status Chamber on 24 June 2025, ordered Hearts of Oak to pay the amount after finding the club in breach of Hiddink’s contract. With no payment forthcoming, Hiddink is now turning to the Ghanaian legal system to ensure he gets what FIFA says he’s owed.
The motion, filed by lawyer Theophilus Tawiah Esq. of Nobisfields Chambers, is brought under Section 59 of the Alternative Dispute Resolution Act, 2010 (Act 798) — a legal provision that allows foreign arbitration awards to be recognised and enforced locally.
HOW DID IT GET HERE?
Hiddink’s relationship with Hearts of Oak began in late 2022, when he was appointed to bring European-style structure and technical expertise to the club. But the partnership didn’t last long.
By the middle of 2023, Hiddink had exited the role under controversial circumstances. Sources close to the situation say the club failed to honour several aspects of his contract, particularly salary and other entitlements prompting the Dutchman to seek redress at FIFA.
FIFA’s tribunal ruled in his favour, directing the club to pay $146,400. However, months later, the coach is still waiting for his money — and now he’s asking the Ghanaian courts to intervene.
WHAT HAPPENS IF THE COURT AGREES?
If the High Court grants the application, the FIFA ruling will be treated as if it were issued by a Ghanaian court. That means Hiddink could begin enforcement steps — including seizure of club assets or freezing of accounts — if the club continues to delay payment.
The case is expected to be moved in court on October 23rd, though the exact date has not yet been set.
Accra Hearts of Oak have not officially commented on the case, but sources say the club’s legal team is preparing to respond.
