Shilllong, Aug 16: The Bureau of the FIFA Council has unanimously decided to suspend the All India Football Federation (AIFF) with immediate effect due to ‘undue influence’ from third parties, which constitutes a serious violation of the FIFA Statutes.
This is the first time the All India Football Federation (AIFF) has been banned by FIFA in its 85 years history.
The suspension will be lifted once an order to set up a committee of administrators to assume the powers of the AIFF Executive Committee has been repealed and the AIFF administration regains full control of the AIFF’s daily affairs.
The suspension means that the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2022, scheduled to take place in India on October 11-30, 2022, cannot currently be held in India as planned. FIFA is assessing the next steps with regard to the tournament and will refer the matter to the Bureau of the Council if and when necessary. FIFA is in constant constructive contact with the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in India and is hopeful that a positive outcome to the case may still be achieved.
The suspension will remain in place until the All India Football Federation (AIFF) regains full control of its daily affairs, FIFA said in a statement.
Bhaichung Bhutia calls the ban ‘harsh’
Former Indian Football team captain turned politician Bhaichung Bhutia said it was unfortunate and harsh decision but also a great opportunity to revamp the Indian football system during the sanctioned period.
“It is very unfortunate that FIFA has banned Indian football and at the same time, I feel it’s a very harsh decision from FIFA. But at the same time, I think it’s a great opportunity to get our system right and it’s very important that all the stakeholders, the Federations, State Association, Sports Ministry to come together, get the system right and everybody worked for betterment of Indian Football,” he said.
