Russian player Nikolai Solovyov wins CAS case against FC Zenit

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) dismissed FC Zenit’s appeal and confirmed the FIFA DRC decision, finding that the employment contract was terminated by the club without just cause.

FC Zenit’s claims for compensation and sporting sanctions against the player were rejected in full.

FC Zenit argued that the player committed prolonged absenteeism and initiated the termination. However, CAS upheld the player’s position, ruling that the dismissal was executed by the club under Article 81 of the Russian Labour Code (employer-initiated termination) and was disproportionate when applied to a young player.

The CAS award (CAS 2025/A/11330) has been published on the official CAS website.

Nikolai Solovyov was represented before FIFA and CAS by SILA International Lawyers.