SPFL club slapped with transfer ban over 2024 contractual issue

The SPFL has imposed the season-long sanction after the League One side committed “a number of rule breaches” over a contractual payment to a player two years ago. They have also been given a £5,000 fine, of which £2,000 is suspended.

Cove say they are disappointed with the punishment and are now assessing what action they will take.

An SPFL statement read: “An SPFL Disciplinary Tribunal has imposed a season-long registration embargo on Cove Rangers following a number of rule breaches.

“The William Hill League 1 club admitted at a hearing that it breached SPFL rules by failing to make a historic contractual payment to a player when due and then failed to notify the SPFL that it had been in default of that rule.

“The club was also found to have provided incorrect information to the SPFL when it certified that it had no overdue payables to current or former players as at 31 January 2026.

“Following these rule breaches by the club, the tribunal imposed a registration embargo which will remain in place until 31 May 2027 and a fine of £5,000 (£2,000 of which is suspended).

“The club has now made full payment to the player involved.”

Cove’s response read: “Cove Rangers FC acknowledges the SPFL’s decision concerning a historic contractual payment from 2024 and subsequent reporting matters.

“The club is disappointed by the severity of the sanctions and is carefully reviewing the decision and considering all available options.”

Managed by Paul Hartley, Cove Rangers are currently ninth in League One, with the Balmoral Stadium outfit on five points.