Hamilton Academical Faces Season-Long Transfer Embargo Over Tax Defaults
Hamilton Academical has been hit with a season-long transfer embargo by the SPFL due to unresolved tax obligations, impacting their future in Scottish League One.

Hamilton Academical has been dealt a significant blow as the SPFL has imposed a season-long transfer embargo on the club. This drastic measure comes as a result of the club's failure to settle its tax obligations to HMRC on multiple occasions. The SPFL announced that the embargo will remain in effect until the end of the 2025-26 season, alongside a £7,500 fine, with £5,000 of that amount suspended.
This is not the first time Hamilton Academical has faced sanctions. The club was already under a registration ban for new players due to previous remuneration and tax defaults during the 2024-25 season. Last season, a 15-point deduction led to the club finishing at the bottom of the Championship, resulting in automatic relegation to Scottish League One.
The SPFL's statement highlighted that Hamilton Academical admitted to further breaches of league rules by failing to notify the SPFL about their tax defaults on three separate occasions. This lack of transparency has only compounded the club's financial and regulatory troubles.
As the club navigates this challenging period, the embargo will severely limit their ability to strengthen the squad, potentially affecting their performance in the upcoming season. Fans and stakeholders alike will be watching closely to see how the club manages these setbacks and works towards financial stability and compliance with SPFL regulations.
For more updates on this developing story, stay tuned to our coverage of Scottish football.