The Russian Football Union's (RFU) appeals committee has confirmed its earlier ruling denying Khimki Football Club from the Moscow Region a license to compete in the Russian Premier League (RPL), according to an official statement.
"The committee rejected Khimki's appeal, upholding the original decision to withhold the license for potential participation in the 2025/26 RPL season due to the club's failure to meet financial requirements," the RFU stated.
Khimki responded by claiming that "non-sporting considerations have overshadowed our right to remain in Russia's top football division, which we earned through fair competition."
Sports journalist Andrei Pankov suggested the club's future is uncertain, stating, "From what I gather, Khimki is effectively bankrupt. Its continued existence—not just in the RPL—is doubtful."
The team has already seen key departures. Argentine midfielder Lucas Vera is reportedly set to terminate his contract and join Lokomotiv Moscow as a free agent, according to *Championship*.
Meanwhile, defender Georgi Dzhikiya's agent, Vladimir Kuzmichev, hinted at possible legal action over unpaid wages. "We anticipated this situation and are exploring options for Dzhikiya’s next club," Kuzmichev said. "Regarding the unpaid salary, we’ll soon meet with Khimki’s management to discuss their stance. Georgi will decide whether to escalate this to the dispute resolution chamber, though we’d prefer not to, given his positive relationship with the club’s owners."