Microsoft Teams File Permissions: Why Can't I Remove Direct Access?

While working with files stored in Microsoft Teams, I recently encountered an issue related to file permissions that may affect other users as well.

A file was uploaded to a Microsoft Teams channel, which means it is physically stored in the SharePoint document library connected to the Team. At some point, direct access permissions were granted to an individual user using the Manage Access feature.

Later, when attempting to remove this direct permission, the option was no longer available.

What Happened?

The file's permission overview shows that the user has Direct Access (View Only) permissions. However, when opening the permission details, SharePoint displays the following message:

"Grant access is unavailable because you are not the owner of this item."

Although the file was originally uploaded by the user attempting to manage permissions, SharePoint does not recognize that user as the owner of the item for permission management purposes.

As a result:

• The granted permission remains visible.
• Permission levels (View, Edit, Block Download) can be selected.
• The Remove Access option is missing.
• Changes cannot be applied because the user is not considered the owner.