The Impressive TimesZurich, Feb 7 , 2025: The International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) has officially suspended the operations of the Congolese Football Federation (FECOFOOT) and the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) due to multiple regulatory breaches.
The decision was finalized during a meeting of the Bureau of the FIFA Council on Thursday and has come into effect immediately.
FIFA cited “severe external interference” as the primary reason behind FECOFOOT’s suspension. According to the football governing body, the situation in the Congolese federation had escalated to an alarming level, prompting urgent action. FIFA emphasized that the undue influence of third parties in FECOFOOT’s operations directly violated its regulations and compromised the federation’s autonomy.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Football Federation faced suspension due to its failure to implement necessary reforms. FIFA stated that the PFF did not adopt a revised set of statutes essential for ensuring fair and democratic elections. This non-compliance meant that the organization was unable to meet the governance standards required by FIFA.
“The inability of PFF to establish a transparent and democratic electoral process remains a significant concern,” FIFA remarked. “Without these reforms, Pakistan’s football governance does not align with the core principles mandated for its member associations.”
The suspension of both federations means they are now barred from participating in any international football activities under FIFA’s jurisdiction. Additionally, financial and developmental support from FIFA to these federations has been halted until further notice.
FIFA has previously taken similar actions against federations that failed to maintain autonomy and adhere to governance standards. It has urged both Pakistan and Congo to resolve their respective issues at the earliest in order to regain membership and resume football operations.
Football fans in Pakistan and Congo have expressed disappointment over the decision, as it directly impacts players, clubs, and national teams, preventing them from competing in FIFA-sanctioned events.
FIFA has stated that the suspensions will be lifted once both federations fulfill the required conditions and demonstrate compliance with international football governance norms.
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