Jubilee FC relegated as LFA faces court controversy

Published: April 8, 2026

MONROVIA — Jubilee FC’s battle to remain in Liberia’s top flight has ended. The Liberia Football Association Club Licensing Appeal Board dismissed the club’s appeal, confirming its relegation to the third division.

A statement released by LFA Monday said the ruling follows a temporary suspension of the relegation by the Court of Arbitration for Sport, which cited due process concerns. The Appeal Board, headed by Counselor Supu Cole, found that Jubilee submitted falsified business registration documents during licensing, making relegation necessary to protect the integrity of Liberian football.

Jubilee was initially relegated in April 2025 for failing to comply with a $10,000 fine and other disciplinary sanctions. The club claimed the penalties were politically motivated and challenged the decision through LFA and CAS channels. With the appeal now closed, Jubilee’s relegation is permanent. Questions remain over whether the LFA will cover 75% of the CAS arbitration costs as directed.

Meanwhile, the LFA is facing fresh legal scrutiny over an ongoing electoral dispute. In a dramatic turn at the Civil Law Court Monday, confidential court documents related to a contempt proceeding involving presidential aspirant Cassell Anthony Kuoh were leaked online. The documents relate to a high-profile case involving an alleged audio recording of Kuoh, which he claims was generated by artificial intelligence.

During proceedings, LFA Secretary General Emmet Crayton testified that while the association maintains official social media platforms for news, the leaked documents were never posted on any LFA accounts. Crayton said all legal documents are typically handled internally by Counselor Ben Yarsiah.

The court described the leak as an “embarrassment” to the judicial system. Crayton apologized to Judge Peter Gbeneweleh, and the matter was referred to Yarsiah, prompting the judge to pause proceedings. The court ruled it would be “unfair” to conclude the case without allowing Yarsiah to respond before the court, ensuring due process before a final verdict.