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Tag: FIFA

  • FIFA’s five-pillar strategy to combat racism

    FIFA’s five-pillar strategy to combat racism

    FIFA has put forward a five-pillar plan aimed at addressing racist abuse in football.

    The global governing body stated that it had engaged in an extensive consultation process with current and former players who are committed to instigating change.

    One of the plan’s key suggestions involves implementing a standard crossed-hands gesture for players to signal racist incidents during matches.

    This ‘Global Stand Against Racism’ proposal is set to be presented to FIFA’s 211 members at the annual congress in Bangkok on Thursday.

    The first pillar of the proposal intends to make racism a specific offence which is included in all member associations’ disciplinary codes and has its own “specific and severe sanctions, including match forfeits”.

    Fifa said it will “pause, suspend and abandon games in cases of racism”.

    The crossed-hands gesture will be used by referees to signal an in-game procedure in which matches are paused twice and warnings are given, with the game to then be abandoned in the event of further racism.

    In pillar three – ‘criminal charges’ – Fifa called for racism to be recognised as a criminal offence in every country, and said it would push for severe sanctions in the countries where it is already an offence.

    Fifa also said it would promote education initiatives with schools and governments to “provide a future free of racism”, while an anti-racism panel made up of former players will be set up to review the progress of the proposal.

    Earlier this year, Brazil and Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr said he felt “less and less” like playing football because he had suffered repeated racist abuse.

    Last year, a Fifa report found almost 20,000 abusive social media posts were aimed at players, coaches and officials during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

    And in 2021, England manager Gareth Southgate called the racist abuse aimed at Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Bukayo Saka after the Euro 2020 final “unforgivable”.
    Why have Wolves called for a vote on VAR?

    Wolves said VAR was introduced “in good faith” but has led to “numerous unintended negative consequences that are damaging the relationship between fans and football”.

    The club is initiating discussions to evaluate the true sentiment towards VAR, rather than simply accepting the status quo during the summer break.

    In the first half of the season, decisions against Manchester United, Luton, Sheffield United, Newcastle, and Fulham proved costly in terms of points.

    A split decision by the Key Match Incident (KMI) panel occurred regarding Joao Gomes’ handball in the 1-1 draw against Luton, while it unanimously agreed that Sheffield United’s last-minute penalty winner should not have been awarded.

    Additionally, Newcastle’s penalty should have been overturned, and during the November match against Fulham, there were disputes over two penalties awarded to the visitors and whether Carlos Vinicius should have been sent off. Despite these concerns, the panel concluded that the VAR decisions were correct.

    At the time, O’Neil suggested that the club might need to escalate its concerns about VAR decisions.

  • Inaugural Women’s Club World Cup to begin in 2026 – FIFA confirms

    Inaugural Women’s Club World Cup to begin in 2026 – FIFA confirms

    FIFA has officially announced that the inaugural Women’s Club World Cup will take place in January and February 2026.

    This landmark decision marks a significant step forward in the development and recognition of women’s club football globally.

    The 16-team tournament will be held every four years, strategically scheduled during the domestic season for European leagues, fitting between the Women’s Champions League group stages and knockout rounds. The timing, set for January and February, aligns well with the global football calendar.

    For example, the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) season in the USA typically begins in March, ensuring no conflict with the start of their domestic season.

    The inaugural Women’s Club World Cup aims to become a pinnacle event in women’s football, providing a platform for the best clubs worldwide to compete at the highest level.

    Among the teams expected to participate are Barcelona, the current European champions, NY Gotham FC, the reigning NWSL champions, and Corinthians, the holders of the Copa Libertadores Femenina.

    FIFA first announced its intention to create a global women’s club competition in December 2022. These plans were confirmed during the FIFA Congress held on Wednesday in Bangkok. This congress was a pivotal moment for women’s football, as it also saw the approval of a new international match calendar from 2026 to 2029.

    The new calendar aims to provide players with more opportunities for rest and recovery by reducing the number of international breaks from six to five, thereby enhancing player welfare and performance.

    In addition to the women’s tournament, FIFA has announced an expanded men’s Club World Cup, to be staged every four years, with the first edition scheduled for next summer.

    This expansion reflects FIFA’s broader strategy to increase the visibility and competitiveness of club football worldwide, across both men’s and women’s games. Manchester City are the reigning champions of the FIFA Men’s Club World Cup.

    https://www.youtube.com/shorts/EM65L_V41_g
  • FIFA aims to pave the way for La Liga, Premier League matches in the US

    FIFA aims to pave the way for La Liga, Premier League matches in the US

    FIFA is moving towards ending decades of football tradition by reviewing the rules that prevent domestic league games from being played in other countries.

    However, fans may object to their teams’ home matches potentially being moved thousands of miles away.

    The United States and Saudi Arabia are expected to be interested in hosting competitive games from top European leagues.

    FIFA recently agreed to withdraw from an ongoing court case in New York, filed by promoter Relevent, which challenged the current policy.

    In April, Spanish league president Javier Tebas expressed hope that La Liga would soon be able to play games overseas.


    “I don’t know when, but this time LaLiga will play official games abroad. I think it could be from the 2025–26 season,” Tebas told Expansión.

    “An official game in the United States would strengthen our position in the North American market, which is the second [biggest] for La Liga after Spain.

    “Other really competitive leagues are coming, so we can’t always do the same thing. They would jump ahead of us.”

    The new FIFA policy is likely to appeal to the growing number of international owners of European clubs, including the wave of U.S. investors in the English Premier League, Italy’s Serie A, and France’s Ligue 1, as well as state-backed teams like Abu Dhabi-owned Manchester City, Qatar-owned Paris Saint-Germain, and Saudi-owned Newcastle United.

    FIFA is forming a panel of 10-15 representatives from various football stakeholders to advise on amending the rules regarding “out-of-territory” games within the next few months.

    These rules were last updated in 2014.

    Previous attempts to hold European League games abroad, such as taking Barcelona to Miami in 2019, were blocked. U.S. promoters are seeking to offer fans more than just preseason exhibition games featuring the world’s best club teams.

    FIFA directed its working group, which is yet to be appointed, to consider fairness and give “advance notice to fans who may miss the opportunity to attend a home or away match in the home territory.”

    Other factors for the FIFA panel include “respect for the recognised structure of international football” and potential disruption to fans, teams and leagues in the country hosting “out-of-territory” games.

  • FIFPRO, World Leagues Association drags FIFA to court over congested calendar

    FIFPRO, World Leagues Association drags FIFA to court over congested calendar

    Fifa faces potential legal action from world players’ union Fifpro and the World Leagues Association, including the Premier League, over plans to hold a 32-team Club World Cup at the end of the next season.

    They argue that the global football calendar is already overstretched, leading to difficulties for national leagues and risking player welfare.

    The PFA has sought legal advice on the issue, expressing concerns over the impact of an increasingly congested schedule on its members. With European club competitions expanding next season, the situation is becoming more strained.

    Manchester City and Chelsea are set to participate in the expanded Club World Cup in the United States next year.

    In a letter to Fifa’s leadership, Fifpro and the World Leagues Association insist that if Fifa extends its own competitions, it must make corresponding adjustments elsewhere.

    It adds that “imposing the burden of adaptation on national leagues and players is inherently abusive” and is “jeopardising national leagues and affecting the health and wellbeing of players.”

    Fifa asserts that its scheduling program considers player welfare, despite concerns raised by Fifpro and the World Leagues Association.

    It contends that in countries with an 18-team league and one cup competition, such as Germany, the Club World Cup and Intercontinental Cup would represent only 2.3% of total club-level matches in a season.

    Additionally, Fifa points out that the European Clubs’ Association supported the Club World Cup plans in a statement issued in December.

    However, Fifpro and the World Leagues Association maintain that they have already given Fifa ample opportunities to address their concerns.

    However, in their letter, they state clearly that if Fifa “refuses to formally commit to resolving the issues” at its council meeting in Bangkok on 17 May, members will be advised “on the options available to them”.

    “These options included legal action against Fifa,” they said.

    During the Fifa council meeting in Thailand, all 211 member associations will convene to vote on the host nation or nations for the 2027 Women’s World Cup. Meanwhile, amidst the threat of legal action against Fifa, Premier League clubs are announcing lucrative post and pre-season tours.

    Recently, West Ham, Wolves, and Crystal Palace revealed a joint pre-season tour of the United States, while Newcastle and Tottenham are scheduled to play in Melbourne, Australia shortly after the conclusion of the Premier League season.

    Additionally, Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool, Arsenal, and Bournemouth are all planning tours to the United States next summer.

  • FIFA likely to be dragged to court over congested calendar

    FIFA likely to be dragged to court over congested calendar

    FIFA is facing the threat of legal action from Fifpro and the World Leagues Association, including the Premier League, if it proceeds with plans to host a 32-team Club World Cup at the end of the upcoming season.

    Both organizations argue that the global football calendar is already oversaturated, making it difficult for national leagues to organize their competitions properly and putting players at risk of injury and impacting their welfare.

    The PFA has been seeking legal advice over the lack of consultation regarding the congested calendar and its potential impact on its members.

    PFA chief executive Maheta Molango has participated in discussions, including at the European Leagues general assembly, where Premier League chief executive Richard Masters expressed concerns about the calendar reaching a tipping point.

    Next season, all three European club competitions will expand to 36 teams, with the Champions League and Europa League featuring eight first-phase games instead of six. This could mean a club needs to play 17 matches to win either competition.

    Manchester City and Chelsea are among the 12 European representatives at the expanded Club World Cup, to be held in the United States in June and July next year.

    In a letter to FIFA president Gianni Infantino and general secretary Mattias Grafstrom, Fifpro and the World Leagues Association suggest that if FIFA extends its competitions, it should adjust others. However, FIFA believes it has taken player welfare into account with its scheduling program.

    The FIFA Council meeting in Thailand will include a vote on the host nation or nations of the 2027 Women’s World Cup, with all 211 member associations in attendance.

    The threat of legal action against FIFA coincides with Premier League clubs announcing lucrative post and pre-season tours.

  • FIFA solidifies Saudi alliance with World Cup partnership deal involving Aramco

    FIFA solidifies Saudi alliance with World Cup partnership deal involving Aramco

    FIFA solidified its partnership with Saudi Arabia by officially announcing a sponsorship deal with the kingdom’s state oil company, Aramco, on Thursday.

    The agreement, widely anticipated, became inevitable after Saudi Arabia was nearly confirmed last October as the host nation for the 2034 men’s World Cup.

    Covering the period up to 2027, the deal encompasses major events such as the men’s World Cup in 2026, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, as well as the 2027 Women’s World Cup, the hosts for which will be determined next month.

    While the financial details of the arrangement were not disclosed, it is likely one of FIFA’s most lucrative deals in terms of average annual value.

    It may also involve sponsorship of the inaugural 32-team Club World Cup scheduled for next year in the U.S.

    FIFA President Gianni Infantino has developed close relations with Saudi Arabia and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman since before the 2018 World Cup.

    Notably, the tournament in Russia was sponsored by the state-owned energy company, Gazprom.

    The bidding process for the 2034 World Cup was unexpectedly launched last October, seemingly tailored to favor Saudi Arabia, with only FIFA member federations in Asia and Oceania permitted to participate.

    By the end of that month, Saudi Arabia was confirmed as the sole candidate.

    While the Visit Saudi tourist board was a minor sponsor of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, its presence was absent at the 2023 Women’s World Cup following objections from organizers in Australia and New Zealand.

  • Injuries stopped me from joining Asante Kotoko – Asamoah Gyan

    Injuries stopped me from joining Asante Kotoko – Asamoah Gyan

    Former Black Stars captain, Asamoah Gyan has disclosed that a series of injuries thwarted his ambition to play for Asante Kotoko.

    Gyan had expressed his aspiration to wear the Red jersey before retiring, a sentiment he reiterated in various media interviews.

    The 38-year-old, who retired from professional football in June 2023, last displayed his skills for Legon Cities in the Ghana Premier League before calling time on his career.

    “I wanted to play for Kotoko before my retirement but injuries hampered my ambitions. Even at Legon Cities, I opted to play a few minutes to gain full fitness. But once I gained fitness, injuries struck again. That was how I began thinking of retirement. I really wanted to play for Kotoko,” the 38-year-old told Onua TV.

    Starting his football journey at Liberty Professionals, Asamoah Gyan enjoyed successful stints with clubs like Sunderland, Rennes, and Udinese.

    However, it was his time at Al Ain in the United Arab Emirates where he made a significant impact.

    Notably, he holds the distinction of being the second-highest scorer in the club’s history and the league’s second-highest scorer, winning the Golden Boot thrice.

    On the international stage, Asamoah Gyan’s legacy shines brightly, as he is Ghana’s all-time leading scorer with 51 goals and holds the record for the most FIFA World Cup goals by an African player, totaling six goals.

  • FIFA delegation visits GFA to check progress of development projects

    FIFA delegation visits GFA to check progress of development projects

    A delegation led by El Hadj Wack Diop, Regional Manager for the FIFA Development Office for West & Central Africa, and Silmara Sousa, Africa-Regional Coordinator of Member Associations Division of FIFA, has begun a three-day visit to the Ghana Football Association (GFA).

    The delegation arrived in Ghana on Tuesday to engage in discussions with the GFA on various football development matters and to review ongoing projects, particularly those supported by the FIFA Forward programme.

    Discussions will cover topics such as reviewing the GFA’s Contract of Agreed Objectives for 2023-2026, assessing FIFA Forward Regulations criteria, and evaluating current projects.

    The meeting will also delve into initiatives led by the GFA’s Technical Department, including Women’s football development, Talent Identification Scheme (TDS), FIFA High Performance, and utilization of FIFA forward funds.

    These engagements aim to provide the GFA with insights to shape future projects for presentation at upcoming AFCA or DevCo meetings of FIFA.

    On Thursday, the delegation will visit project sites, including the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram, and meet with key stakeholders, including the Director of the Technical Centre and the Technical Director.

    Meetings have already occurred with the President of the Association, Edwin Simeon-Okraku, the General Secretary, Director of Legal, Women’s football development team, and the Director of Finance.

    El Hadj Wack Diop and Silmara Sousa will conclude their visit on Friday, March 29, 2024, before departing Ghana. This visit underscores FIFA’s commitment to supporting football development initiatives in Ghana and promoting collaboration between FIFA and national football associations.

  • FIFA president Infantino rules out use of blue cards

    FIFA president Infantino rules out use of blue cards

    FIFA president Gianni Infantino has categorically rejected the idea of incorporating blue cards into any future sin bin trial in football.

    The proposed use of blue cards was intended to signal a temporary dismissal of a player, as part of trial protocols scheduled for publication on February 9.

    These protocols had been approved at a board meeting of the International Football Association Board earlier in the week.

    However, the announcement of blue cards on February 8 was met with widespread criticism, prompting the IFAB to postpone the publication of the protocols. The decision was made to allow for further discussions at the organization’s annual general meeting over the weekend.

    On the eve of Saturdays meeting in Loch Lomond, Infantino said: “There will not be any blue cards used at elite level. This is a topic that is non-existent for us.

    “FIFA is completely opposed to blue cards. I was not aware of this topic. I’m the president of FIFA and I think FIFA has a say in the IFAB. So, I don’t know if you want the title, ‘It’s red card to the blue card’!

    “Every proposal and every idea has to be treated with respect, of course. But, once you look at it, you also have to protect the game, the essence of the game, the tradition of the game and there is no blue card.”

    The International Football Association Board are considering changes to the current rules of red and yellow cards
    The International Football Association Board are considering changes to the current rules of red and yellow cards

    The proposed introduction of a blue card, as initially envisioned in the trial, would have marked the most significant change in player discipline management since the introduction of red and yellow cards at the 1970 World Cup.

    However, it is now understood that while the trial itself will continue to be developed, it will likely occur at a lower footballing level than originally planned. The February 9 protocol, which aimed to encourage applications from various competitions but not the very top-level ones, has been put on hold due to the controversy surrounding blue cards.

    Prior to the debate surrounding blue cards, the Football Association, one of the five bodies comprising the IFAB, had expressed interest in conducting a trial in the men’s and women’s FA Cups in the future.

  • FIFA throws out CD Clara’s case against Kennedy Boateng and SC Austria Lustenau

    FIFA throws out CD Clara’s case against Kennedy Boateng and SC Austria Lustenau

    The Dispute Resolution Chamber of FIFA has rejected Liga Portugal 2 side CD Santa Clara financial and disciplinary action demands against Kennedy Boateng and SC Austria Lustenau, the Austrian Bundesliga outfit has announced.

     After sealing a move to the Lustenau-based club on a free transfer, the relegated Portuguese top-tier side filed a complaint to FIFA claiming the player and the club should be brought to book, citing a breach of contractual obligations on the part of the 27-year-old defender as their employee.

    After all the parties were made to present their statements of defence in January this year, those in charge of the Planet Pure Stadion have said that the  Dispute Resolution Chamber of FIFA has quashed the claimant case against them as well as the experienced guardsman.

    A statement from the club’s official website read: “Today, Monday, FIFA informed the parties involved about the decision of the “Dispute Resolution Chamber” in connection with the procedure surrounding the employment relationship and the signing of the player, Kennedy Kofi Boateng. CD Santa Clara’s claims against the player and therefore also against SC Austria Lustenau were completely rejected.

    “At the beginning of January, SC Austria Lustenau was informed that our player Kennedy Boateng’s former club CD Santa Clara had made both financial and disciplinary demands to FIFA against the players—and therefore also against the player’s new club. After all parties involved have submitted their statements over the last few months, FIFA’s responsible “Dispute Resolution Chamber” today announced its decision in this case.

    The decision states that all allegations and demands from the Portuguese club have been completely rejected and therefore both the player and SC Austria Lustenau do not have to fear any consequences.”

    Board of directors spokesperson Bernd Bösch added this to his outfit’s communications network.

    “Even though, as we have often emphasised, we were not aware of any wrongdoing on our part at any point in the process and carried out everything properly when signing us, we are of course all relieved that the responsible body at FIFA has confirmed this view. We are very happy that we can now hopefully finally close this chapter and focus fully on the other important issues in the club relating to staying in the league. In this context, we would like to once again thank Luca Tettamanti from ELITE LAW SE, who provided us with excellent support throughout the entire process.”

    Born to a Ghanaian father and a Togolese mother in Ghana, Boateng opted to represent Togo at the international level.

  • FIFA commemorates Ghana’s Alberta Sackey’s 2003 iconic Women’s World Cup goal

    FIFA commemorates Ghana’s Alberta Sackey’s 2003 iconic Women’s World Cup goal

    FIFA recently commemorated an unforgettable moment in women’s football history: the iconic goal scored by former Ghanaian footballer Alberta Sackey during the 2023 Women’s World Cup.

    Alberta Sackey is best known for her remarkable contributions to Ghana’s national women’s football team, the Black Queens.

    She notably represented Ghana in two World Cups, in 1999 and 2003, with the latter tournament leaving a lasting impression on Ghanaians.

    Sackey’s unforgettable moment occurred during the 2003 FIFA Women’s World Cup match between Ghana and Australia on September 3, 2003.

    Leading up to this match, the Black Queens had a challenging start to the tournament, suffering defeats against China and Russia.

    However, in the match against Australia, Alberta Sackey, serving as the captain of the Black Queens, showcased her brilliance by scoring Ghana’s first goal with a powerful strike, revitalising her team’s spirits and leaving a lasting legacy on the tournament.

    In a move reminiscent of her football prowess, Sackey skillfully intercepted the ball from an Australian player, deftly manoeuvred it, and then delivered a powerful strike that earned her the esteemed title of Goal of the Tournament.

    Adding to her stellar performance, Sackey concluded the game with another exceptional goal, securing Ghana’s 2-1 victory over Australia.

    Despite her outstanding efforts, the win proved insufficient as the Black Queens were ultimately eliminated from the tournament, finishing in third place.

    Now, 21 years later, Sackey’s goal remains etched in football history as one of the most memorable moments from that tournament, rightfully earning recognition from FIFA.

  • FIFA to build football academies in Ghana, others countries

    FIFA to build football academies in Ghana, others countries

    Arsène Wenger, FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, recently hinted at the establishment of a standard football academy in Ghana, among other African nations.

    He made these remarks following his attendance at the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON), where Ivory Coast emerged as the champions.

    Wenger, the former Arsenal manager, highlighted FIFA’s ongoing efforts to enhance football globally, including plans to establish academies in 75 countries by the close of 2026.

    “We are nearing the opening of new academies in Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Ghana, and Zambia within the next six months to a year. By 2026, we expect to have 75 academies worldwide. This represents a significant step forward in football education, which is our current focus,” Wenger stated as reported by FIFA.

    He continued, “Our objective is to raise the standard and competitiveness of the game, which can only be achieved through improved football education and higher-quality competitions.”

  • Black Stars ranked 67th globally, 14th in Africa -FIFA rankings

    Black Stars ranked 67th globally, 14th in Africa -FIFA rankings

    Following their disappointing performance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Ghana has experienced a significant decline in the latest FIFA World Rankings.

    The Black Stars, previously ranked 61st at the end of 2023, have now plummeted six places to 67th globally, reflecting their regression on both the global and African rankings.

    Currently occupying the 14th position on the CAF rankings, Ghana has been surpassed by Cape Verde, South Africa, and DR Congo, who have all moved ahead of the four-time AFCON winners.

    This decline follows Ghana’s premature exit from the 2023 AFCON, where they managed to secure only two points from three matches against Cape Verde, Egypt, and Mozambique.

    Meanwhile, Côte d’Ivoire, the champions of the 2023 AFCON hosted in Cote d’Ivoire, have seen a significant rise in their ranking, climbing ten places to 39th globally.

    Nigeria, the runners-up, have also made substantial progress, moving up 14 places to 28th. Additionally, Angola, who was eliminated by Nigeria in the quarterfinals, experienced the most considerable improvement, climbing 24 places to 93rd in the global rankings.

  • Video: Black Stars should be dissolved – Sam George justifies

    Video: Black Stars should be dissolved – Sam George justifies

    Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram, Sam George, has called for the disbandment of the team following the disappointing performance of the senior national team, the Black Stars, during the recently concluded 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament in Ivory Coast.

    Expressing his views on ‘Ekosii Sen’ on Asempa FM on Monday, February 12, Sam George, a member of the Public Accounts Committee, asserted the necessity of disbanding the team, even if it results in a FIFA ban.

    Highlighting the importance of effective player integration and understanding the national team’s culture and commitment, the lawmaker emphasised the need for significant changes within the team.

  • January transfers: FIFA reports 80% decline in clubs spending

    January transfers: FIFA reports 80% decline in clubs spending

    English clubs reduced their spending on international transfers by 80% compared to their record expenditure in January 2023, according to a FIFA report released on Tuesday.

    Despite a record total of 5,073 international transfers across men’s and women’s football, English clubs showed unusual restraint in their spending habits.

    This cautious approach by English clubs has been attributed to the Premier League’s implementation of Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), leading to consequences such as a 10-point deduction for Everton and additional charges for Nottingham Forest.

    In contrast to English clubs, spending in other countries remained relatively unaffected.

    The total amount spent on international transfer fees decreased by 8.2% compared to the previous January but still amounted to $1.46 billion, marking the second-highest total in any January window.

    French clubs emerged as the biggest spenders last month, with a total outlay of $291.9 million.

    However, this prudence in spending did not extend to the women’s game, as evidenced by Chelsea’s acquisition of forward Mayra Ramírez from Levante for a world-record fee of approximately €450,000 ($485,000), with potential additional fees of €50,000.

    FIFA also reported record spending in women’s football, totaling $2.1 million, which is more than two-and-a-half times higher than the previous year’s figure.

  • FIFA dismisses rumours regarding the introduction of ‘blue cards’ in football

    FIFA dismisses rumours regarding the introduction of ‘blue cards’ in football

    FIFA has refuted claims regarding the introduction of blue cards in football.

    Recent reports suggested that the International Football Association Board (IFAB) had initiated a trial for the use of blue cards as a sin-bin penalty, wherein players would be temporarily sidelined for 10 minutes for infractions like dissent and tactical fouls.

    In an official statement, FIFA explicitly dismissed these reports as inaccurate and premature.

    They clarified that while discussions regarding the possibility of implementing blue cards may be underway, any trials would be confined to lower-tier competitions, not elite levels.

    “FIFA wishes to clarify that reports of the so-called ‘blue card’ at elite levels of football are incorrect and premature.

    “Any such trials, if implemented, should be limited to testing in a responsible manner at lower levels, a position that FIFA intends to reiterate when this agenda item is discussed at the IFAB AGM on March 2.”

  • I would not run any more – UEFA’s Ceferin president after his end of tenure in 2027

    I would not run any more – UEFA’s Ceferin president after his end of tenure in 2027

    Current UEFA president, Aleksander Ceferin, has announced that he will not seek re-election in 2027.

    This decision comes after UEFA voted to amend its rules, potentially allowing Ceferin to remain in office until 2031.

    English Football Association (FA) was the lone dissenting voice at the UEFA congress in Paris, arguing that leaders should have a maximum of three terms, each lasting four years.

    Previously, presidents could serve three terms, but the new ruling means Ceferin’s initial term, which began in 2016 when he replaced Michel Platini, does not count as a full term.

    Ceferin took over from Platini, who stepped down due to a ban by FIFA for ethics breaches. Despite the motion passing with a two-thirds majority, Ceferin later declared that he would not stand for re-election in 2027.

    Ceferin told a news conference: “I decided six months ago that I would not run any more. The reason is that after some time, every organisation needs fresh blood, but mainly because I was away from my family for seven years now.

    “I intentionally didn’t want to disclose my thoughts before, because firstly, I wanted to see the real face of some people and I saw it.”

    Critics of the proposal, such as FA chief executive Mark Bullingham, contended that the amendment contradicts Ceferin’s commitment to promoting cleaner corporate governance in UEFA when he assumed office from Platini.

    UEFA general secretary Theodore Theodoridis stated that Ceferin’s failure to inform national associations of his intentions beforehand did not embarrass the FA.

    “I don’t think so,” he said. “We have a democracy.”

    The change is seen as controversial, and UEFA’s technical director, Zvonimir Boban, quit his role in January in protest at Ceferin’s presumed intention to stay on for a further term, calling the move “beyond comprehension.”.

    Ceferin responded to this after making his announcement, saying Boban was aware he would not seek re-election and calling his stance a “pathetic cry.”.

    “He could not wait because, after my disclosure, his whining would not make sense,” Ceferin added.

    Additional statutory modifications, including the mandate for a minimum of two female members on the UEFA executive committee, were also included in the motion. Bullingham, along with delegates from Norway and Iceland, opposed the decision to combine these changes into a single vote.

    The FA indicated its support for the other proposed statutory amendments. However, after the motion to bundle them together was approved, the FA felt compelled to vote against all the proposals.

    “We requested and voted for the statute changes to be tabled separately, but this was not supported by a sufficient majority and we respect that,” said an FA spokesperson.

    “We believe that it was always intended that a principle of three terms of four years should be the maximum period for any UEFA exco member to serve.”

  • FIFA announces New Jersey as host of 2026 World Cup final

    FIFA announces New Jersey as host of 2026 World Cup final

    2026 World Cup final is set to take place at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, the home of the NFL’s New York Giants and New York Jets, as announced by FIFA on Sunday.

    The global showcase, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, will feature a 48-team tournament culminating in the final on July 19th at the open-air stadium with a capacity of 82,500.

    MetLife Stadium previously hosted the Copa America Centenario final in 2016, where Chile secured victory over Lionel Messi’s Argentina in a penalty shootout.

    The tournament will kick off at Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca on June 11th, making Mexico the first nation to host the World Cup for the third time.

    Estadio Azteca previously hosted the World Cup finals in 1970 and 1986, witnessing memorable moments such as Pele’s Brazil defeating Italy 4-1 and Diego Maradona’s Argentina beating West Germany 3-2.

    Maradona’s iconic ‘Hand of God’ goal and the ‘Goal of the Century’ were also scored at the same venue during the 1986 quarterfinals against England.

    Canada, hosting its first World Cup games, will commence its matches on June 12th in Toronto at the home of the city’s MLS team.

    Meanwhile, the opening game in the United States will be held in Los Angeles at the home of the NFL’s Rams.

  • Barca’s Joan Laporta hints Super League could start next season

    Barca’s Joan Laporta hints Super League could start next season

    Barcelona president Joan Laporta mentioned on Friday that a European Super League initiative could kick off as early as next season, expressing indifference towards English clubs’ participation.

    In 2021, Barcelona and Real Madrid initiated a Super League project, but it swiftly disintegrated due to fan and institutional backlash, leading other clubs to withdraw.

    In December, the European Union’s Court of Justice ruled that FIFA and UEFA had violated competition law by obstructing the breakaway league.

    Following this, A22 Sports Management, the promoters of the Super League, promptly outlined plans for a new 64-team tournament, positioning it to rival or potentially replace UEFA’s Champions League.

    “The Super League could start next season, or it will be in 2025–26, and if not, I will rethink everything,” Laporta told RAC1 radio station.
    Six Premier League clubs were part of the initial proposal but pulled out and have shown no intention of returning.
    “I don’t care if the English teams join,” added Laporta.

    “They already have their Super League, the Premier League.”

    Laporta said the project could begin with just 16 teams.

    “The European Cup started in 1955 with very few clubs and later became the top competition in Europe,” said Laporta.

    “I imagine a first phase like this, and (more clubs) then integrating.”

    The Barcelona president has proposed potential participants for the European Super League alongside Real Madrid, such as Inter Milan, AC Milan, Roma, and Napoli from Italy.

    Joan Laporta also mentioned Portuguese clubs Porto, Sporting Lisbon, and Benfica, along with Dutch teams Ajax, Feyenoord, and PSV Eindhoven.

    Additionally, French side Marseille and Belgian outfits Club Brugge and Anderlecht were listed. However, both Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain, prominent teams in Germany and France, respectively, have criticised and distanced themselves from the Super League project, declaring non-involvement.

    The European Super League has been suggested as a solution for financially struggling clubs to enhance their economic stability.

    “The Super League means that you’re putting 100 million euros ($109 million) on the table for a club just for competing in the competition, at least, and you don’t even get that for winning the Champions League,” said Laporta.

  • Ghana makes 7th spot in latest FIFA Global Transfer Report of 2023

    Ghana makes 7th spot in latest FIFA Global Transfer Report of 2023

    The latest FIFA Global Transfer Report 2023, Ghanaian footballers secured the 7th position among the most transferred players.

    A total of 630 Ghanaian players participated in transfers during the period, marking a 19.1% increase from the previous year.

    The report revealed that 179 different nationalities represented professional players involved in international transfers.

    In the top ten nationalities with the highest number of transfers in 2023, Ghana and Nigeria were the only two African countries, highlighting the significant interest in talent from these West African nations.

    While Ghana and Nigeria featured in the top ten for the number of transfers, the list for spending was dominated exclusively by nationalities from South America and Europe.

    Transfers involving Ghanaian players generated $162.9 million, ranking 20th overall. Nigeria ranked higher at 15th place, with earnings totaling $189.1 million.

    Notably, Kudus Mohammed’s high-profile transfer from Ajax Amsterdam to West Ham United for $48 million contributed significantly to Ghana’s overall figure.

    Furthermore, Ghana witnessed a notable 36.8% increase in transfers in Women’s Football, securing the 8th position overall, with a total of 52 players involved in transfers.

  • $9.63bn was spent by clubs on intl. transfers last year – FIFA

    $9.63bn was spent by clubs on intl. transfers last year – FIFA

    In 2023, football clubs worldwide reached an unprecedented level of spending on international transfers, setting a new record at $9.63 billion, as reported by FIFA in its Global Transfer Report published on Tuesday.

    This marked a substantial surge of nearly 50% compared to the expenditures in 2022.

    After facing declines in 2020 and 2021 due to the financial repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic, transfer spending rebounded significantly, witnessing a notable increase of 48.1% from the previous year. The total spending in 2023 also shattered the 2019 record by more than $2 billion.

    English clubs took the lead in spending, reaching a historic high of $2.96 billion. Additionally, four countries’ football associations received over $1 billion in transfer fees during the year.

    Saudi Arabian clubs emerged as noteworthy players in the transfer market, making efforts to attract top talent from European sides to the Saudi Pro League. This trend gained momentum after the high-profile signing of Cristiano Ronaldo, prompting several players to make moves to the Middle East.


    “Clubs from Saudi Arabia featured among the top five spenders for the first time with a total outlay of $970m in 2023, compared to $50.4 million in 2022,” FIFA said.

    “Clubs from Germany were the number one recipients of transfer fees with a total of almost $1.21bn, the first-ever time that clubs from any one association have received more than $1 billion in transfer fees in a calendar year.

    “That being said, three more associations also joined Germany in this exclusive group in 2023: France [$1.19bn], England [$1.04bn] and Italy [$1.02bn].

    The top men’s transfers include Jude Bellingham from Borussia Dortmund to Real Madrid, Enzo Fernández from Benfica to Chelsea and Harry Kane from Tottenham to Bayern Munich.

    “The top 10 player transfers alone generated more than 10% of the entire amount spent on transfer fees in 2023,” FIFA added.

    In the realm of women’s football, there was a remarkable 20% surge in international transfers in the past year when compared to 2022. The involvement of clubs also witnessed an increase, rising from 507 in 2022 to 623 in 2023.

    FIFA disclosed that a record-breaking 131 associations participated in 1,888 women’s transfers, constituting an annual spending of $6.1 million—an all-time high and an 84.2% surge from 2022.

    Noteworthy international transfers in women’s football included Jill Roord moving from Wolfsburg to Manchester City, Kyra Cooney-Cross from Hammarby to Arsenal, and Lindsey Horan from Portland Thorns to Lyon.

    It’s worth noting that a significant majority, specifically 84.7%, of these transfers involved out-of-contract women’s players.

    FIFA also highlighted the movement of over 50,000 amateur players across borders to join clubs in new associations, with the majority, 91.7%, being male players. The increased activity in women’s football transfers reflects a growing dynamism and global participation in the sport.

  • FIFA Football for Schools commemorates United Nations International Day of Education

    FIFA Football for Schools commemorates United Nations International Day of Education

    The International Day of Education celebrates the vital role that education plays in peace and human development. It was launched by the United Nations in 2018, which was also the same year that the Football for Schools programme saw the light of day at the eighth FIFA Council meeting in Rwanda. A Memorandum of Understanding was subsequently signed by FIFA and UNESCO so as to roll out the programme all over the globe. Six years down the line, 105 countries have joined the initiative.

    In addition to this impressive number of signed-up nations, tens of millions of children have been positively affected by F4S. And it is these children that the programme aims to support and nurture, by incorporating football-related activities into the education system, with an overriding goal of making the sport more accessible to young people.

    “The objective is to create a link between education and football by ensuring that children’s introduction to kicking a ball around is as fun as possible, and by teaching them essential life skills,” explained Football for Schools Director Fatimata Sidibe.

    She added, stressing the importance of 24 January to her and to the entire world: “This day places the focus firmly on education and raises awareness among stakeholders to support transformative actions that help achieve inclusive, equal and high-quality education for all. Education and sport play such a key role in children’s well-being and in building sustainable and resilient societies, transforming lives and breaking the cycle of poverty that tends to trap so many youngsters.”

    The F4S Director is well-versed in this topic, having traveled the globe with her team over the past three years to meet these children, as well as the teachers and trainers expected to become true ambassadors of the programme, helping them to implement it everywhere, especially in some of the most remote regions of the world.

    “Football is not only a universal sport, but it also has an extraordinary ability to unify and contribute to social integration, as well as educating and liberating boys and girls,” she said. “FIFA harnesses this power to provide children from all over the world, from very different backgrounds, with the opportunity to play and learn.”

    In 2023, 71 FIFA member associations successfully introduced the programme. One of the many countries to join the F4S club was Fiji. “Football is now part of my life,” said 12-year-old Joeli Nakakai, a Fijian pupil at Tavua Primary School. “The experience has helped me to improve my technical skills, and as a person.”

    He continued: “Through this programme, I’ve learned a lot about gender equality, for example. I was shy about playing with members of the opposite sex, but now I’m more comfortable with the idea. I’ve also learned so much about respecting others, disabilities, and cultural differences. “Now I know how to play in a team, and I feel like I know myself better. I’m better at communicating with others. At the start of the programme, I didn’t know how to juggle the ball, but now I can do 35 easily!”

    Although Fiji has traditionally been regarded as a rugby stronghold, Football for Schools has nevertheless managed to establish itself there. The programme partly owes its success to the overwhelming support it has received from local authorities. “Incorporating football into the national education system and the school curriculum will contribute to social change and help children to become better citizens,” said Sidibe.

    “By learning intrapersonal and cognitive skills, interpersonal skills, active citizenship skills and healthy behaviour, children will boost their personal development and contribute to sustainable development goals.”

    Sustainable development is, of course, one of Africa’s major challenges. Interestingly, it is the global region in which Football for Schools has established itself the most, proportionally speaking: 37 of FIFA’s 54 African member associations are on board with the programme, equating to 70 per cent of the continent. It was first introduced in Malawi in 2022 (https://apo-opa.co/498XdM3), where it has since become indispensable, suggesting that the project can be durable and viable once it is up-and-running.

    “As a girl, this has been a very beneficial experience,” said Ulemu Matchado, 13, a pupil at Chipoza Primary School in Kasungu, central Malawi. “I’ve learned the benefits of teamwork, self-confidence, leadership abilities, discipline, time management, setting realistic goals and consistently having a positive outlook. On the football side, I have improved my focus, which has enabled me to do things on the pitch I didn’t think I was capable of.

    “I’ve also learned that able-bodied individuals are not necessarily superior to those who might have a physical disability, and that these people should be given equal opportunities in life. They are more than capable of making a positive contribution to the country’s development.”

    Learning is at the very core of what Football for Schools does, and ‘Learning for a lasting peace’ is the theme of the 2024 International Day of Education. “Courtesy of the F4S initiative, children learn to know themselves and the world around them better, learn to live and interact in harmony with others, and learn to take responsibility for their own health and well-being,” concluded Sidibe.

  • Infantino pushes for automatic forfeit when fans commit racist abuse

    Infantino pushes for automatic forfeit when fans commit racist abuse

    FIFA president Gianni Infantino has called for the implementation of an automatic forfeit of games for teams whose fans commit racist abuse.

    This statement comes in the wake of racist incidents at matches involving AC Milan and Coventry City, where players reported hearing monkey noises from the crowd.

    Infantino described the incidents as “totally abhorrent” and stressed the need for stricter measures against such behavior, suggesting an automatic forfeit for teams whose fans engage in racist abuse.

    He said in a FIFA post on X: “As well as the three-step process (match stopped, match re-stopped, match abandoned), we have to implement an automatic forfeit for the team whose fans have committed racism and caused the match to be abandoned, as well as worldwide stadium bans and criminal charges for racists.

    “FIFA and football shows full solidarity to victims of racism and any form of discrimination. Once and for all: No to racism! No to any form of discrimination!

    Mike Maignan informed officials of racist abuse at Udinese
    Mike Maignan informed officials of racist abuse at Udinese

    “The events that took place in Udine and Sheffield on Saturday are totally abhorrent and completely unacceptable. The players affected by Saturday’s events have my undivided support.

    “We need ALL the relevant stakeholders to take action, starting with education in schools so that future generations understand that this is not part of football or society.”

    “[A] couple [of] fans doing monkey chants doesn’t define a fan base — I appreciate all the love and support I’ve received.”

  • FIFA’s Infantino denounces “abhorrent” racism witnessed during matches in Italy and England

    FIFA’s Infantino denounces “abhorrent” racism witnessed during matches in Italy and England

    FIFA president Gianni Infantino has advocated for global stadium bans for fans and proposed “automatic forfeits” for teams in cases where supporters engage in “abhorrent” abuse.

    This call comes in response to recent racist incidents during football matches in Italy and England on Saturday.

    Infantino emphasised that there is no tolerance for any form of discrimination, whether within football or in a broader societal context.

    “The events that took place in Udine and Sheffield on Saturday are totally abhorrent and completely unacceptable,” he said in a statement.

    “The players affected by Saturday’s events have my undivided support.”

    Fans aimed monkey chants at AC Milan and France goalkeeper Mike Maignan during Milan’s dramatic 3-2 win at Udinese, with the game temporarily halted.

    Support from Mbappe

    In a strongly worded statement on X, formerly Twitter, the France team said: “You have all our support, Mike Maignan. The FFF (French federation) totally condemns all racist acts.”

    France captain Kylian Mbappe also offered his backing to his international teammate.

    “You are very far from being alone, Mike Maignan; we are all with you,” wrote the Paris Saint-Germain star.

    “Still the same problems and still NO solution. Enough is enough!!!!! NO TO RACISM” he posted on X.

    Coventry midfielder Kasey Palmer accused Sheffield Wednesday fans of doing the same towards him during their English Championship clash, which his team won 2-1.

    “We need all the relevant stakeholders to take action, starting with education in schools so that future generations understand that this is not part of football or society,” Infantino said.

    “As well as the three-step process (match stopped, match re-stopped, match abandoned), we have to implement an automatic forfeit for the team whose fans have committed racism and caused the match to be abandoned, as well as worldwide stadium bans and criminal charges for racists.

    “FIFA and football show full solidarity with victims of racism and any form of discrimination. Once and for all: No to racism! No to any form of discrimination!”

    At Udinese, referee Fabio Maresca stopped play during the first half and a livid Maignan stormed down the tunnel with his teammates.

    “They’re ignorant people… You can be booed or whistled when you’re away from home; that’s normal, but what happened today has no place in football,” Maignan told Sky Sports.

    Play resumed after about five minutes.


    Italy, currently under the governance of a coalition led by the far-right Brothers of Italy party, grapples with the prevalence of fascist football fan groups, especially within the dedicated “ultras” who significantly contribute to the stadium atmosphere.

    Recently, Lazio faced consequences as they received a one-match stand closure penalty due to fans directing monkey chants at Romelu Lukaku during their Italian Cup victory against local rivals Roma.

    In Sheffield, the abusive behavior was strongly condemned by Palmer, who labeled it as “abhorrent and wholly unacceptable.” The match was temporarily halted as the referee engaged with both managers on the touchline to address the issue.

    In a statement, Sheffield Wednesday said they were “shocked and saddened by the racist gesture from the stands reported by Sky Blues player Kasey Palmer.”

    “Both clubs roundly condemn any form of discrimination and abuse, and underline that there is no place for this kind of behaviour in football or our wider society,” it added.

    “We will work together with the relevant authorities and anyone proven to be culpable will face the strictest possible sanctions from both Sheffield Wednesday and the law.”

  • FIFA Best Awards: Messi and Bonmati triumph

    FIFA Best Awards: Messi and Bonmati triumph

    Lionel Messi secured the Men’s Player of the Year accolade for a historic third time at The FIFA Best Awards ceremony held in London.

    The 36-year-old Argentina captain clinched the title after a vote tie-break with Erling Haaland, where Messi received more first-choice nominations from national team captains, resulting in a tied total of 48 points for both players.

    Despite a remarkable achievement by Manchester City striker Haaland, who set a record-breaking Premier League scoring total of 36 goals and contributed to the Citizens’ Treble victory, Messi’s contributions stood out.

    Messi, who netted 16 goals and provided an equal number of assists for Paris Saint-Germain in the 2022-23 Ligue 1 season, later made a high-profile move to Inter Miami, where he lifted the Leagues Cup in August.

    In the women’s category, Aitana Bonmati, the Ballon d’Or Feminin holder, was named the Best Women’s Player. The 25-year-old midfielder played a pivotal role in Spain’s World Cup triumph last summer and also contributed to Barcelona’s victories in the Champions League and Liga F.

    After being presented with the award, Bonmati said: “I am proud of being part of a powerful generation of women, part of changing the rules of the game, and the world.”

    In other categories, Pep Guardiola was named the Best Men’s Coach for guiding Manchester City to the Treble last season, while England’s Sarina Weigman claimed the women’s coaching prize for the fourth time.

    Mary Earps secured the Best Women’s Goalkeeper award for the second consecutive year, recognizing her stellar performances with England and Manchester United. Her outstanding campaign also earned her the BBC Sports Personality of the Year accolade.

    Ederson received the men’s goalkeeper award in recognition of his impressive displays between the posts during Manchester City’s Treble-winning season.

    Guilherme Madruga was awarded the Puskas Award, edging out Brighton’s Julio Enciso, thanks to his spectacular overhead kick during Botafogo’s match against Novorizontino in the Brazilian second tier.

    The FIFA Fairplay Award went to Brazil’s men’s team for their solidarity gesture. They wore black kits in a friendly match against Guinea last June, showing support for Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Jr. after he was subjected to racist abuse in LaLiga.

    The 2023 FIFPro Men’s World XI: Thibaut Courtois, John Stones, Kyle Walker, Ruben Dias, Bernardo Silva, Jude Bellingham, Kevin De Bruyne, Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe, Lionel Messi and Vinicius Jr.

    The 2023 FIFPro Women’s World XI: Mary Earps, Olga Carmona, Lucy Bronze, Alex Greenwood, Keira Walsh, Alessia Russo, Lauren James, Ella Toone, Aitana Bonmati, Alex Morgan and Sam Kerr.

  • We used $300k from FIFA Forward Funding to buy footballs for clubs nationwide for 3 years – GFA

    We used $300k from FIFA Forward Funding to buy footballs for clubs nationwide for 3 years – GFA

    Henry Asante Twum, the Communications Director of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), disclosed that over the past three years, the GFA has allocated $300,000 from the total $8.6 million received through FIFA Forward funding (spanning from 2016 to 2022) for the purchase of footballs to support clubs in the country.

    Asante Twum shared this information during an interview with Asaase Radio, highlighting the GFA’s ongoing efforts to invest in football development and infrastructure using the resources provided by FIFA Forward.

    ”We announced some time ago that about $100,000 will go into purchasing of footballs for all our Regional Football Associations because our clubs in Division Two, Division Three and then Colts leagues lacked the needed basic amenities to help them develop players at the grassroots level,” Henry said on TeamTalk.

    “So it’s something we’ve been doing for the past three years. Every season, we invest $100,000 to purchase footballs for all the RFAs and then it is supplied to the clubs,” he added.

    Additionally, Henry Asante Twum disclosed that the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has made significant investments in various areas to support clubs and women’s divisions.

    These investments include allocations for IT equipment, capacity building initiatives, administrative structures, and the supply of essential necessities to strengthen the foundational aspects of football development in the country.

    “Administratively we also decided to invest in IT, we bought internet and then administrative computers and communication gadgets for all the 18 Premier League clubs to be used at their Secretariat, all the 48 Premier League clubs also benefited from it.

    ”The 20 Women’s Premier League clubs also benefited, not only the Premier League clubs but all the 10 regional football associations also benefited from the IT initiative that we announced as part of the benefits we received from the FIFA forward 1.0.

    “So, it has gone into various areas of administration. But, football is such that once it doesn’t show on the pitch, everybody seems to forget what you have done in terms of investments,” he added.

    The FIFA Forward initiative is tailor-made support for football development that the organisation provides for all its 211 member associations (MAs) and six confederations.

  • Man City win FIFA Club World Cup

    Man City win FIFA Club World Cup

    Manchester City has concluded a historic 2023 by achieving a remarkable feat, becoming the first English club ever to concurrently hold the Premier League, FA Cup, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, and the FIFA Club World Cup.

    The crowning moment took place in Jeddah on Friday, where City secured the FIFA Club World Cup in their inaugural attempt, triumphing over Brazilian side Fluminense with a convincing 4-0 victory in the final held at the King Abdullah Sport City Stadium.

    Pep Guardiola’s squad, having completed this unprecedented quintuple, will now return to Manchester and immediately shift their focus to preparations for the upcoming Wednesday clash in the Premier League against Everton, as they aim to continue their pursuit of securing a fourth successive league title.

    Expressing the team’s pride in this extraordinary accomplishment, club captain Kyle Walker highlighted the significance of winning all five trophies in a single calendar year, labeling the achievement as “special.”

    “We’ve shown over the past 12 months we are the best team in the world. Our results prove that and the consistency we have managed has been amazing.

    “To win these five trophies – for me, the five biggest prizes available to us – is incredible. I am so proud to have been a part of this and I can honestly say it’s an honour to play alongside these players; I couldn’t ask for better teammates.

    “And it isn’t just the players – the team behind the team here at City are the best you could ever ask for and I want to put on record my thanks and appreciation for every single person who works here day to day to try and help us be the best we can be.

    “The level of quality in football across the world right now is scary. It’s really, really hard to win consistently, so to be sat here today having won the Premier League, the FA Cup, the Champions League, the Super Cup and the Club World Cup is really special and a huge achievement.

    “It’s been the best year I have had in football and something I will never, ever forget.”

    The 2022/23 season marked a historic milestone in Manchester City’s illustrious 129-year history. A phenomenal run of form saw the team secure victories in 22 matches and draw in five of the final 28 contests across all competitions. This exceptional performance solidified City’s status as only the second English team ever to achieve the prestigious Treble, consisting of triumphs in the Premier League, Champions League, and FA Cup.

    The relentless pursuit of success carried into the subsequent season, where Pep Guardiola’s squad continued to make history by adding the Super Cup and Club World Cup to their already impressive collection. These achievements further cemented Manchester City’s legacy as a dominant force in football.

    Pep Guardiola added: “I am so proud of this Club. What we have done is an outstanding achievement.

    “To win this trophy is to be the best team in the world and our players, our coaches, our backroom staff, all of them work hard every single day to bring us this success.

    “As a manager it is what I am most proud of; that we are always there. No matter how much we win, no matter what trophies we lift, we are there again to fight for the next one.

    “To win the Treble was truly special, but to win two more trophies and now hold these five major titles shows the unique mentality of this team, of the Club and its fans.

    “It is something no other English team has ever achieved and we will always remember this incredible time we spent together.”

    For the City boss, the recent triumph represents another addition to his ever-expanding collection of silverware. Since his arrival at Manchester City in the summer of 2016, Pep Guardiola has now secured a total of 16 trophies. This impressive haul includes five Premier League titles, one Champions League, two FA Cups, four League Cups, one Super Cup, one Club World Cup, and two Community Shields.

    Across his entire managerial career, Guardiola’s trophy cabinet now boasts an astounding total of 37 major honors. The recent FIFA Club World Cup victory marks his fourth title in this competition, with previous successes achieved during his tenure with Barcelona in 2009 and 2011, and Bayern Munich in 2013 before his latest triumph with Manchester City.

  • 2022 World Cup: FIFA gave Ghana $7.9m instead of $9m due to $800k debt owed by GFA

    2022 World Cup: FIFA gave Ghana $7.9m instead of $9m due to $800k debt owed by GFA

    The reduction in Ghana’s 2022 World Cup prize money from $9 million to $7.9 million was reportedly due to outstanding debts owed by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to FIFA.

    The debt, totaling over $800,000, includes expenses related to the travel and accommodation of officials, as well as the participation of Ghana’s U-17 and U-20 Women’s national teams in FIFA tournaments.

    Additionally, cautions incurred by Ghana contributed to the overall debt. The GFA confirmed the debt and its impact on the prize money, acknowledging the need to settle outstanding obligations to FIFA.

    “The GFA was entitled to $9m for placing between 17 and 32 in the FIFA World Cup [in Qatar], subject to the deduction of all outstanding debts on the account of the association at FIFA,” Henry read a portion of a letter he said the FA wrote to the Sports Ministry on June 14, 2023.

    He explained that every member association of FIFA has a specific account designated at FIFA for payment of money due it.

    “…the association also received $25,000 credit relating to 2018. This was money FIFA owed the GFA as far back as 2018 and FIFA added it to our World Cup prize money for participating in the 2022 World Cup and this was fully contained in the letter we sent to the Minister.

    “FIFA has deducted the outstanding debts in the sum of $800,131.23 from 2016 to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, including fees for cautions, flights, accommodation, charges.

    “This leaves us with an amount of $8,224, 868.77.  We wish you to remind of you the payment of $300,000 we took from the bank to pay the three Black Stars coaches on behalf of the Ministry for qualifying Ghana to the World Cup against Nigeria per their contract.

    “So after all the deductions and what not, the net balance is $7,899,868.77 which is currently to our credit at the bank,” he added.

    Henry, however, did not clarify if the loan the FA took to pay the coaches as their performances bonus was deducted by FIFA or GFA deducted it and paid to the bank.

    He concluded by saying that, the GFA will publish the details.

  • Black Queens ranked 4th in latest FIFA ranking

    Black Queens ranked 4th in latest FIFA ranking

    The latest FIFA Women’s National Team Rankings place the Black Queens in the 4th position in Africa.

    Ghana trails behind Nigeria, Morocco, and South Africa, with the latter having a commendable performance in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

    Despite being 4th in the African rankings, the Black Queens have slipped two places in the world rankings, now occupying the 61st spot.

    This reflects a slight decline from the team’s starting positions earlier in the year, when they were 3rd in Africa and 59th globally.

    Notably, under the guidance of head coach Nora Hauptle, the Black Queens have experienced a successful 2023, marking it as one of the best years for any Ghanaian national team.

    Throughout the year, the team achieved the most wins, had the longest winning streak, and conceded the fewest goals.

    Nora Hauptle’s squad scored an impressive 34 goals in 11 matches, maintaining a winning streak of 10 consecutive victories before experiencing their only defeat in the last game of the calendar year.

  • WWC winners Spain claims top spot in FIFA rankings

    WWC winners Spain claims top spot in FIFA rankings

    The women’s World Cup champions, Spain, have attained the top spot in the FIFA rankings for the first time, surpassing the second-placed United States, as announced by the world governing body on Friday.

    This achievement makes Spain the fourth team to reach the summit of the rankings, following the U.S., Germany, and Sweden.

    Spain secured their ascent to the top after winning the World Cup final against England in August, moving up four spots to second. Their remarkable performances in the Women’s Nations League solidified their position.

    Having topped their group with five wins, including victories over Sweden, Spain qualified for the Nations League Finals in February, where they will face the Netherlands in the semifinals.

    The USWNT rose to second place in the rankings, with France in third. Both the U.S. and France also qualified for the Nations League Finals, facing Germany and each other in the semifinals, respectively.

    European champions England are in fourth place, while Sweden dropped to fifth after finishing third in their Nations League group.

    The rankings now include a record 192 nations, with the additions of the Central African Republic and Macau and the return of North Korea (ninth), American Samoa, Madagascar, and the Bahamas.

  • FIFA grants approval to include 30 Nigerian referees on international lists for 2024

    FIFA grants approval to include 30 Nigerian referees on international lists for 2024

    FIFA has granted approval for the inclusion of 30 Nigerian referees on the international lists for the year 2024.

    This sanctioned group comprises 11 referees, 11 assistant referees, four beach soccer referees, and four futsal referees.

    The 11 referees authorised for international duty in 2024 are: Basheer Salisu, Ogabor Odey Joseph, Olufunmilayo Abigael Alaba, Nurudeen Abubakar, Abdulsalam Kasimu Abiola, Elaigwe Hannah Enekole, Akintoye Yemisi Eunice, Egba Patrick John, Madu Ndidi Patience, Mustapha Grema Mohammed, and Abdullahi Abubakar.

    The 11 individuals approved as assistant referees include: Pwadutakam Samuel, Igudia Efosa Celestine, Abibatu Iyadunni, Muhammad Yakubu, Mfon Friday Akpan, Digbori Tejiri, Usman Abdulmajeed Olaide, Igho Hope Ogenekewe, Terah Kabenda Beauty, Ahmad Mustapha Tijjani, and Agbons Faith.

    For futsal soccer, Ukah Ndubuisi Odigomma, Musa Dung Davou, Umuago Paul Akpome, and Bello Zuru Alhassan have been included, while Ogunmuyiwa Jelili, Fawole Olawale Adeolu, Olajide Olayinka, and Rabiu Ahmad made the list for beach soccer.

    FIFA’s approval underscores the recognition and competence of these Nigerian referees at the international level for the upcoming year.

  • Record $888m in agent fees fueled by Premier League Saudi Club spending – FIFA

    Record $888m in agent fees fueled by Premier League Saudi Club spending – FIFA

    Clubs in England and Saudi Arabia have driven spending on player agents in international transfer deals to a record-breaking $888 million this year, according to FIFA.

    The governing body highlighted instances of service fees exceeding $10 million, acknowledging that despite its efforts to regulate agent payments, there are challenges.

    FIFA recently faced a setback in a London court ruling that jeopardises its global regulations. Agents in Europe have contested the rules through legal actions, leading to a delay in their implementation, and England continues to dominate the multi-billion-dollar player transfer market, as per FIFA’s latest research.

    FIFA said English clubs were “the number one spenders by a long shot” in 2023, with combined spending of more than $280 million on agent commissions in transfers between two clubs in different countries. Money from player transfers between two clubs in the same country does not count in the FIFA numbers.

    The total expenditure on agents witnessed a 42% increase in 2022, surpassing the previous peak of $654 million in 2019 by more than one-third.

    Italian clubs led the way, with a collective spending of $115.7 million.

    Notably, Saudi Arabian clubs, backed by a state-sponsored recruitment initiative, spent $86 million on agents, aiming to enhance their domestic league with high-profile signings like Cristiano Ronaldo, Neymar, and Karim Benzema.

    FIFA highlighted 224 cases where the agent service fee exceeded $1 million, constituting almost 69% of the total expenditure. In the majority of deals, agents received fees ranging from $10,000 to $100,000.

    Clubs in North and Central America spent $5.4 million across 20 transfers, while African clubs spent less than $200,000, according to FIFA.

  • FIFA’s The Best awards ceremony to be hosted in London next year

    FIFA’s The Best awards ceremony to be hosted in London next year

    The FIFA‘s The Best awards ceremony is scheduled to take place in London on January 15.

    The event will recognize outstanding achievements, including the Best Men’s Player, Best Women’s Player, Fair Play Award, Puskas Award, and Fan Award.

    The exact venue is yet to be confirmed by FIFA. London previously hosted the awards in 2016 and 2017.

    Nominees for the men’s player award include Declan Rice, Julian Alvarez, Kevin De Bruyne, Erling Haaland, Bernardo Silva, and Ilkay Gundogan. Pep Guardiola is among the nominees for the Best FIFA Men’s Coach.

    Manchester City’s Ederson and Manchester United’s Andre Onana are among the nominees for the Best Men’s Goalkeeper award. The qualifying period for the men’s award was from December 19, 2022, to August 20, 2023.

    In the women’s category, England players Mary Earps, Rachel Daly, Alex Greenwood, Lauren James, and Keira Walsh are nominated for various awards.

    The women’s qualifying period ran from August 1, 2022, to August 20, 2023, covering the period of the World Cup final. Lionesses’ boss Sarina Wiegman and Chelsea’s Emma Hayes are nominated for the Best Women’s Coach award.

    Four members of the Spain women’s national team that won the World Cup—Aitana Bonmati, Jennifer Hermoso, Salma Paralluelo, and goalkeeper Catalina Coll—have been nominated for FIFA’s The Best awards.

    However, their coach Jorge Vilda was not shortlisted in the women’s coach category.

    The finalists for the categories will be announced by FIFA in the coming weeks. Lionel Messi, nominated for the 2023 award, won the 2022 prize after helping Argentina to World Cup glory, while Alexia Putellas won the women’s award.

  • FIFPRO report shows one-third of Women’s World Cup players make less than $30,000 annually

    FIFPRO report shows one-third of Women’s World Cup players make less than $30,000 annually

    Despite the record prize money in the 2023 Women’s World Cup, a FIFPRO poll released on Wednesday revealed that many players in the tournament still lack sufficient financial compensation.

    According to the Global Players Union, one in five players supplements their income with a second job.

    The poll also found that one in three World Cup players earn less than $30,000 annually from football with their national teams and clubs combined, excluding the pre-tax $30,000 minimum World Cup prize money guaranteed by FIFA.

    While the total prize money for the women’s World Cup increased to $150 million, it remains significantly less than the $440 million prize pool for the men’s World Cup in Qatar last year.

    “The players gave everything they had to put on a brilliant World Cup, but there are still important gaps that need addressing,” said Sarah Gregorius, FIFPRO’s director of policy and strategic relations for women’s football.

    In a survey conducted by FIFPRO, 260 players from 26 of the 32 national teams participating in the World Cup were interviewed.

    Some players have experienced delays in receiving the money guaranteed by FIFA, and according to FIFPRO, these delays are often attributed to factors such as payment schedules.

    FIFA is reportedly working with the concerned countries to address the issue.

    “A lot of players have been paid and we’re getting a lot of feedback on how life-changing this is for them, and at the end of this, hopefully we’re in a position to say 100% of the players have been paid and that’s really shifted the needle when it comes to compensation, gender equity and pay equity in football more broadly and in sport more broadly.”

    According to the poll, 53% of players expressed dissatisfaction with the amount of rest they had before their initial World Cup match.

    Two-thirds believed they were not in their physical prime when the tournament began, and 60% stated that the post-tournament rest period was inadequate.

    Additionally, 86% reported having less than two weeks off before rejoining their club.

    The survey also revealed that 10% of players did not undergo a pre-tournament medical examination, and 22% did not have an electrocardiogram (ECG), both of which are required by FIFA tournament regulations.

    “Anything below 100% when it comes to accessing an ECG or undertaking a pre-tournament medical is not acceptable,” said Alex Culvin, FIFA’s head of strategy and research for women’s football. “Regulations need to be applied and adhered to in full.”

  • Black Stars to rank first in Group I if Ghana secures win over Comoros today

    Black Stars to rank first in Group I if Ghana secures win over Comoros today

    On Tuesday, November 21, Ghana has the opportunity to claim the top spot in Group I if they secure a victory over Comoros.

    This follows their recent narrow triumph against Madagascar at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium, where striker Inaki Williams found the net in added time of the second half, earning them three crucial points.

    After their Saturday journey to Comoros, the Black Stars utilised the Moroni Training Centre for their practice session on Sunday.

    Today marked the team’s final training session at the same venue, affirming their readiness for the impending showdown with Comoros under the guidance of coach Chris Hughton.

    In the broader context of the group standings, a win for Madagascar against Chad today, coupled with a draw between the Central African Republic and Mali, sets the stage for Ghana to claim the top position in Group I with a victory over Comoros tomorrow.

    The highly anticipated match between Comoros and Ghana is scheduled to commence at 4 p.m. at the Moroni Stadium.

  • Weija-Gbawe to unveil largest FIFA-standard astroturf pitch in Ghana

    Weija-Gbawe to unveil largest FIFA-standard astroturf pitch in Ghana

    Weija-Gbawe Municipal Assembly, which recently secured the top position in the Public Financial Management Compliance League Table among all 261 metropolitan, municipal, and district assemblies (MMDAs) in Ghana, is on the verge of unveiling the largest FIFA-standard artificial turf pitch in the country.

    During a visit to the 80% completed project site at the New Gbawe Cluster of Schools, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Patrick Kwesi Brako Kumor, and the Member of Parliament (MP) of Weija-Gbawe, Tina Nana Ayeley Mensah, took stock of the 700-capacity facility.

    The MP praised the contractor, Oxygen Capital Group Limited, for their commendable work and emphasized that the project is funded by the government of Ghana through a $1 million allocation from the Coastal Development Authority (CODA), which was under the now-defunct Ministry of Special Development Initiatives.

    In 2018, the MP approached CODA to request the construction of an astroturf pitch, fulfilling her 2016 campaign pledge to the youth of the New Gbawe Electoral Area.

    MCE Patrick Kwesi Brako Kumor commended the MP for delivering on her promise and underscored the significance of this historic astroturf pitch for the municipality.

    “I would like to express my wholehearted support and enthusiasm for the development of the largest artificial turf pitch in Ghana within the Weija-Gbawe municipality. This initiative reflects a commitment to improving the quality of life for residents and fostering the growth of sports and recreational activities in the region,” he said.

    “The introduction of such a facility not only offers a state-of-the-art sports infrastructure but also promotes physical fitness, encourages community engagement, and provides a platform for nurturing talent in various sporting disciplines.

    “It’s a testament to the forward-thinking leadership and the dedication of the community towards the betterment of its people.

    “Moreover, a project of this magnitude will undoubtedly have economic benefits, as it can attract local and even international sports events and tournaments, bringing in revenue and boosting the local economy. It also serves as a focal point for social interaction and bonding, fostering a stronger sense of community among the residents.

    “I commend the Weija-Gbawe municipality for their prudent financial management and their vision in investing in projects that enhance the overall well-being of their constituents.

    “I believe that this astroTurf pitch will be a source of pride for the community and a symbol of progress for Ghana as a whole. Let’s continue to support initiatives like this that contribute to the growth and development of our regions and our nation,” he told the media.

    The Gbawe Sports Centre, as it will be officially known, according to the contractor, is expected to be completed by the end of November this year.

  • ‘Nothing is going to work’ if we don’t find experts – CAF stadium inspector advises

    ‘Nothing is going to work’ if we don’t find experts – CAF stadium inspector advises

    CAF stadium inspector, Emmanuel Newton Dasoberi, has emphasised the need for experts and technocrats to oversee stadium management in Ghana, ensuring that these venues comply with FIFA and CAF standards for matches.

    Dasoberi pointed out that the National Sports Authority (NSA), responsible for state-owned stadiums, has not effectively ensured that Ghana’s stadiums meet the necessary standards established by football governing bodies like FIFA and CAF.

    In an interview with Graphic Sports, the CAF official stressed the importance of a national dialogue to address the effective management of stadiums in order to align with the requirements outlined by football regulatory organisations.

    “We need a national dialogue on this matter. If we don’t agree as a nation that we do not have what it takes to host international matches, then we are going nowhere.”

    “The long-term plan is to agree and prioritise whatever we need. We cannot say that we are going to renovate all five. It is not possible to maintain five stadia at the level CAF or FIFA wants.

    “We must agree as a long-term measure to get the experts involved, get a contractor like CAF has rightly mentioned, get the pitch experts, people who are seriously into construction, to do the right thing,” Mr Dasoberi suggested last Friday.

    “If we don’t have the right management approach, nothing is going to work. We must, as a country, understand that things have changed. Football is changing and playing in a stadium is not only about the playing field,” he said.

    Emmanuel Newton Dasoberi’s comments followed CAF’s observation that the Cape Coast Stadium falls short of the requirements for hosting CAF Champions League matches.

  • Cape Coast stadium is below standard, can’t be trusted to host FIFA matches – CAF declares after inspection

    Cape Coast stadium is below standard, can’t be trusted to host FIFA matches – CAF declares after inspection

    Cape Coast Stadium has been placed under a ban by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) due to its below-standard quality for hosting international matches.

    Consequently, Ghanaian champions Medeama have been compelled to relocate their CAF Champions’ League group matches to the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi as an alternative venue.

    This stadium closure will also affect Ghana’s upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Madagascar, as the Black Stars are now set to make Kumasi their preferred home ground.

    The decision to close the Cape Coast Stadium came in a report submitted to the Ghana Football Association by CAF’s Technical Development Director, Raul Chipenda.

    This report followed an inspection of the facility by CAF, which identified a range of shortcomings and deficiencies.

    It recommended significant renovations and upgrades to bring the stadium in line with compliance requirements.

    Key concerns highlighted in the CAF report encompassed issues related to the stadium’s functionality, design, comfort, and the quality of its equipment.

    The inspection report ultimately concluded that various areas within the stadium necessitated upgrades and refurbishments to meet the contemporary requirements and standards expected of a modern football stadium.

    Furthermore, CAF recommended that only construction and renovation companies with a proven track record in modern stadium projects should be engaged to execute the required refurbishments.

    “Based on the inspection report, we regret to inform you that the stadium does not meet the set CAF stadium minimum requirements to host CAF Senior International matches,” the report said.

    Mr. Chipenda stressed that the facility would only gain approval if all their recommendations were meticulously addressed following a re-inspection.

    Kumasi has emerged as the preferred home ground for competitive matches involving the Black Stars since the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifying playoff with Nigeria last year. Prior to this shift, the team had traditionally played their matches on Cape Coast.

    Medeama had previously hosted Remo Stars from Nigeria and Horoya AC from Guinea at the Cape Coast Stadium during the preliminary rounds of the Champions League.

    However, following the recent CAF directive, the ‘Mauve and Yellow’ will now host their Group D rivals in Kumasi, with fixtures against CR Belouizad on December 1, Young Africans on December 8, and Al Ahly on February 23 next year.

  • Joint Indonesian-Australian bid for 2034 World Cup abandoned as Indonesia supports Saudi bid

    Joint Indonesian-Australian bid for 2034 World Cup abandoned as Indonesia supports Saudi bid

    Indonesia’s football federation (PSSI) announced on Wednesday their support for Saudi Arabia’s bid to host the 2034 World Cup, despite PSSI president Erick Thohir having mentioned just a week earlier that discussions were underway with Australia regarding a potential joint bid for the tournament.

    “Indonesia supports Saudi Arabia’s bid to host the FIFA World Cup in 2034,” Thohir said in a statement.

    “Indonesia continues to prepare for its bid to host the FIFA World Cup after 2034, as well as other FIFA competitions.”

    FIFA has initiated a call for bids from countries in Asia and Oceania to host the 2034 tournament, with the submission deadline set for October 31.

    Just last week, Thohir revealed that he had engaged in discussions with his Australian counterpart regarding a potential bid, one that might encompass not only Australia but also Malaysia and Singapore.

    Football Australia had previously expressed their interest in investigating the feasibility of submitting a bid to host the tournament.

  • FIFA extends condolences to Israel and Palestine FAs

    FIFA extends condolences to Israel and Palestine FAs

    On Friday, FIFA president Gianni Infantino sent letters to the leaders of the Israel and Palestine Football Associations, offering his condolences for the “horrific violence” that has occurred in the past week, resulting in the loss of over 2,700 lives.

    Infantino’s letter follows a similar expression of condolences from UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin, who wrote to the head of the IFA.

    Hamas militants were responsible for the deaths of more than 1,300 Israelis in their attack on Saturday.

    In response, Israeli airstrikes have led to the deaths of over 1,400 individuals in Gaza, as reported by local authorities there.

    “I would like to express… our deepest condolences to the Israel Football Association and the Palestine Football Association, in light of the horrendous violence that has been occurring over the past days,” Infantino wrote.

    “It is as heartbreaking as it is shocking to see a region whose people have known such profound suffering for far too long suffer even more.

    “The footballing world stands firmly in solidarity with the people of Israel and Palestine and with all the innocent victims that have paid an unspeakable price.”

    Neither FIFA nor UEFA, the governing body of European football, have released any statements in the media regarding the dispute. Aleksander Ceferin, president of UEFA, sent a letter of sympathy to the IFA chief as well.

    “FIFA joins in calling for the immediate end of hostilities and for the immediate relief of the suffering of the people of both Israel and Palestine,” Infantino added.

    “Of course, we know that football cannot solve the problems of the world, but it can play even a small part in bringing a light of hope where there appears to be only darkness ahead.”

    Infantino also said that FIFA would offer assistance in relief efforts.

  • Saudi Arabia makes an official bid to host FIFA 2034 World Cup

    Saudi Arabia makes an official bid to host FIFA 2034 World Cup

    Saudi Arabia confirmed its pursuit of hosting the 2034 World Cup by submitting a letter of intent to FIFA, the global football governing body, on Monday.

    “Last week we announced our ambitions to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, and this official submission continues our journey to make the dreams of our people a reality,” Yasser Al Misehal, president of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF), said in a statement.

    “We are extremely committed to presenting the most competitive bid possible that will also help unite the world through football.”

    SAFF said that once they declared their intention on Wednesday to bid for the tournament, “over 70 FIFA Member Associations from across different continents have publicly pledged their support for the Kingdom.”

    Last week, FIFA named Morocco, Spain and Portugal as hosts of the 2030 World Cup, with Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay hosting the opening matches to mark the tournament’s centenary.

  • All you need to know about 2023 Ghana Football Association election

    The Ghana Football Association (GFA) is gearing up for its Extraordinary Congress, scheduled for October 5th at the Redaach Memorial Hotel in Tamale.

    The Congress is slated to kick off at 9 a.m. and will primarily focus on endorsing Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku for a second term as the President of the GFA.

    Kurt Okraku, the incumbent GFA President, is running uncontested after the Appeals Committee upheld the disqualification of his sole challenger, George Afriyie. Okraku initially secured the GFA Presidency in October 2019 when he triumphed over George Afriyie.

    He took the reins from Kwesi Nyantakyi, whose prolonged tenure was marred by allegations of corruption, brought to light through an investigative exposé by journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas.

    The upcoming Congress is not limited to the presidential endorsement; it will also involve the election of executives who will oversee GFA affairs for the next four years.

    In addition to the presidential position, delegates will select five representatives for the Ghana Premier League (GPL) and three representatives for the Division One League (DOL) for the Executive Council.

    The DOL candidates vying for the positions include Mark Addo, Samuel Addo Anim, Eugene Nobel Nii Amon Noel, Gideon Fosu, and Alexander Ababi.

    For the GPL roles, ten candidates are in the running, including Kingsley Osei Bonsu, Nana Sarfo Oduro, Frederick Acheampong, Anthony Kwesi Aubynn, Ransford Anertey Abbey, Onyina Asenso, Edmund Kwabena Ackah, James Kwasi Appiah, Elloeny Amande, and Raphael Yawiah Gyambrah. Dr. Gifty Afia Oware-Mensah is running uncontested for the Women’s Football representative on the Executive Council.

    The electoral process will span across ten regions, where regional delegates will elect their respective chairmen. Two chairmen will subsequently join the Executive Council.

    Some regions have uncontested chairmanship races, including Greater Accra, Western, Eastern, and Northern regions. Samuel Aboabire, Simon Ehomah, Linford Boadu Asamoah, and Mahamadu Abu-Hassan are among the uncontested candidates.

    In the Central region, Robert Otieku Duncan and Abdul Hayye Yartey are competing for the Central FA Chairman role, while the Brong Ahafo FA Chairman position is being contested by Dickson Kyere-Duah, Dr. Charles Osei Antoh, and Meshack Asante Ameyaw.

    Salifu Shaibu Zida and Abel Alonort Asoogo are running for the Upper East Region FA Chairman role.

    The event in Tamale is expected to host observers from FIFA, including Gelson Fernandes, Director of Member Associations for Africa; Silmara Sousa, FIFA Development Programme Coordinator; and Mr. Ahmed Harraz, FIFA Member Associations Africa representative.

  • FIFA deploys formidable delegation to Ghana ahead of GFA elections

    FIFA has assembled a robust delegation for the upcoming 2023 Elective Congress of the Ghana Football Association scheduled for Thursday, October 5, 2023, in Tamale.

    The FIFA Delegation, as announced by the GFA, consists of three key members: Gelson Fernandes, who serves as the Director of FIFA Member Associations Africa; Silmara Sousa, holding the role of Development Program Coordinator for FIFA Member Associations Africa, and Ahmed Harraz, who assumes the position of Senior MA Governance Services Manager in FIFA MA Governance.

    This FIFA Delegation has been actively assisting the GFA Elections Committee and will engage in final preparations and discussions with the committee during their stay in Ghana before the Congress.

    Additionally, FIFA Executive Council Member Amaju Melvin Pinnick is expected to arrive in Ghana in the coming week to participate in the elective Congress, which will take place in the Northern Regional Capital, Tamale.

    Furthermore, both CAF and WAFU B have expressed their intentions to send representatives to ensure the success of the GFA Congress on Thursday, October 5, 2023.

  • FIFA delegation to fly to Ghana for GFA Congress

    FIFA, the global governing body for football, is set to closely monitor the upcoming elective congress of the Ghana Football Association (GFA).

    To oversee this, FIFA has assembled a formidable delegation for the 2023 GFA Elective Congress.

    The FIFA Delegation, as officially announced by the GFA, includes Gelson Fernandes, Director of FIFA Member Associations Africa; Silmara Sousa, Development Program Coordinator for FIFA Member Associations Africa; and Ahmed Harraz, Senior Manager of MA Governance Services at FIFA.

    This FIFA Delegation, which has been providing support to the GFA Elections Committee, is anticipated to engage further with the GFA Elections Committee during their visit to Ghana before the Congress takes place.

    In addition to the FIFA delegation, FIFA Executive Council Member Amaju Melvin Pinnick will also be arriving in Ghana in the coming week for the elective Congress to be held in the Northern Region on Thursday, October 5, 2023, in Tamale.

  • FIFA under pressure to sack Samuel Eto’o from role as FECAFOOT president

    A group of Cameroonian officials is exerting pressure on FIFA to remove former Barcelona striker Samuel Eto’o from his position due to multiple controversial incidents linked to him.

    In a letter addressed to FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Patrice Motsepe, the group questions Eto’o’s continued leadership at FECAFOOT, alleging that he has “illegally” asserted control over the organisation.

    CAF had initiated an investigation into Eto’o’s alleged improper conduct in August following leaked audio implicating him in a match-fixing scandal, despite his denials.

    Eto’o had claimed he was conversing with a friend who invests in football and expressed that he “would have done everything possible to avoid any refereeing errors against him.”

    According to the group’s letter, which includes figures like Pierre Semengue, President of the Professional Football League of Cameroon, and former FECAFOOT Vice-President Henry Njalla Quan Junior, the lack of action taken against Eto’o “lies at the very heart of football’s issues of integrity, ethics, and fair play.”

    The letter also references Eto’o’s suspended prison sentence in a tax fraud case, asserting that, according to FECAFOOT’s statutes, he should have relinquished his role after the ruling.

    Additionally, it mentions an incident in which Eto’o kneeled a man in the face during the World Cup in Qatar, captured on video.

    Eto’o’s partnership with sports betting company 1XBET is another point of contention in the letter, alleging that it constitutes a “flagrant violation” of the FIFA Code of Ethics.

    Pointing to the Spanish Football Federation’s (RFEF) swift attempts to remove Luis Rubiales as president following his kiss on Jenni Hermoso after the Women’s World Cup, the letter challenges world football’s governing body, saying: “Not a word has been heard from FIFA despite numerous complaints and reminders from Cameroonian football actors.

    “How can FIFA continue to remain silent in the face of so many scandals that compromise public confidence in sporting ethics and the sincerity of matches?”

    It continued: “The sad reality of this two-speed management of almost identical situations is that Africa remains a kind of enclave where you can take liberties with the ethics and exemplarity that sports leaders should embody,” the letter says.

    “Can you imagine FIFA and UEFA remaining silent when the president of a European football federation is suspected of match-fixing, with audio recordings to back it up?

    “Can you imagine FIFA and UEFA keeping quiet while the president of a European soccer federation signed a personal ambassadorship contract with a sports betting operator?”

  • Morocco confirmed as host of 2025 AFCON

    Following Algeria’s withdrawal from the bid to host the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially designated Morocco as the host nation for the 2025 edition.

    Originally, Guinea was slated to host the 2025 AFCON, but they lost their hosting rights in September 2023.

    CAF President Patrice Motsepe confirmed this decision, citing Guinea’s lack of progress in preparing for the tournament.

    The announcement was made by CAF President Patrice Motsepe on Wednesday, September 27, in Cairo, Egypt.

    The 35th edition of Africa’s premier football competition will be held across various cities in Morocco, including Casa, Fez, Marrakech, Rabat, Tangier, and Agadir.

    Initially scheduled for June–July 2025, the 2025 AFCON might now be hosted in January–February 2026.

    This adjustment is due to the expanded FIFA Club World Cup set to take place in June–July 2025.

    Notably, this will be the second time that Morocco hosts Africa’s premier football competition, with the first instance occurring in 1988.

    Meanwhile, the 2023 AFCON is set to be held in Ivory Coast from January 13 to 11, 2024, featuring 24 nations competing for the ultimate prize.

  • FIFA bans Hearts of Oak after failure to pay ex coach

    FIFA bans Hearts of Oak after failure to pay ex coach

    FIFA has taken punitive measures against Hearts of Oak, instituting a transfer embargo due to the club’s failure to settle an outstanding debt of $14,002 owed to their former coach, Slavko Matic.

    The global soccer governing body has also directed the Ghana Football Association to enforce this decision at the national level.

    The dispute originates from events in March 2023, when Serbian coach Slavko Matic was unexpectedly terminated from his position. His dismissal occurred amid a tumultuous situation, with angry fans confronting him during a training session.

    In response, Matic filed a formal complaint with the Ghana Police, expressing concerns for his safety.

    Given the escalating tension, Hearts of Oak expressed their inability to guarantee the coach’s security.

    Following these developments, Matic escalated the matter to FIFA, which reached a verdict in July of the same year.

    FIFA ruled in favour of Matic, instructing Hearts of Oak to compensate their former coach with the sum of $14,002 for the contract breach.

    However, Hearts of Oak has yet to adhere to FIFA’s directive, prompting the international organisation to impose the transfer ban.

    This ban, which is already in effect, prohibits the club from registering new players until they fulfil their financial obligations to Matic.

  • FIFA spent record $7.36bn on international transfers

    FIFA spent record $7.36bn on international transfers

    FIFA has confirmed that this summer saw an unprecedented $7.36 billion spent by clubs on international transfer fees, with the Saudi Pro League coming in second only to the Premier League in terms of spending.

    According to a statement from the world football governing body, English clubs led the way in terms of the costliest arrivals from abroad, with a total expenditure of $1.98 billion across 449 transfers.

    The Saudi Pro League closely followed with a combined spending of $875 million.

    Notably, the Saudi Pro League’s figure, boosted by Neymar’s $96 million transfer from Paris Saint-Germain, could have been even higher if Al Ittihad had succeeded in their $187 million bid for Mohamed Salah on the September 1 deadline day.

    “European football continues to be the benchmark for the game globally, and the Saudi investment in the game will divert its focus towards the infrastructure, to elevate the level of Asian football,” Deloitte Sports Business Group Izzy Wray said on Friday.

  • Luis Rubiales’ uncle questions his character, calls him ‘a cowardly man obsessed with power and women’

    Luis Rubiales’ uncle questions his character, calls him ‘a cowardly man obsessed with power and women’

    President of the Spanish Football Association (FA), Luis Rubiales, has faced strong criticism from his own uncle, who has described him as a “cowardly man” with an “obsession” for power, luxury, money, and women.

    Rubiales has been handed a suspension by FIFA from all football-related activities due to his conduct during the 2023 Women’s World Cup final.

    He was captured on camera grabbing his crotch during Spain’s 1-0 victory over England.

    Additionally, he was seen hugging players and kissing Barcelona striker Jenni Hermoso on the lips during the post-match medal ceremony.

    Despite facing widespread backlash, Rubiales has chosen not to resign and continues to defend himself.

    His mother has even resorted to a hunger strike to clear his name. However, the entire squad of 23 players from Spain’s World Cup-winning team has vowed not to represent the national team until he steps down from his position.

    Furthermore, 11 members of Jorge Vilda’s coaching staff have resigned.

    Rubiales has faced criticism from various notable figures in sports and government. Now, his own uncle has questioned the character of the 46-year-old FA chief.

    Juan Rubiales, who served as his nephew’s chief of staff at the RFEF between 2018 and 2020 but now endures a strained relationship with a close family member, has told El Confidencial: “Dignity is to defend Jenni, understand her, and reproach the embarrassing behaviour of this president.

    “He is a proud, arrogant person and his great enemy is himself. He is suffering because of his pride and arrogance. And now he does not have the slightest dignity to get out of this trance in an honourable way.

    “He is a cowardly man. When he puts on the boss’ hat, of course, he feels that he is the best.

    “He is a man obsessed with power, obsessed with luxury, obsessed with money, even with women. I believe that this boy needs a programme of social re-education and re-education in his relationship with women.”

    UEFA has rejected calls from the RFEF for Spanish teams to be banned from European competition as a result of government interference in sporting matters, but a long-running saga appears set to drag on for some time yet.

  • Luis Rubiales forwards a video to FIFA showing Jenni Hermoso joking with teammates about World Cup kiss incident

    Luis Rubiales forwards a video to FIFA showing Jenni Hermoso joking with teammates about World Cup kiss incident

    President of the Spanish Football Federation, Luis Rubiales, has reportedly forwarded a video to FIFA that appears to depict Jenni Hermoso joking about their controversial kiss incident.

    Rubiales has found himself embroiled in a significant controversy in Spain following the Women’s World Cup final, in which Spain emerged victorious with a 1-0 win.

    After the triumph over England, Rubiales kissed Hermoso without her consent, sparking a backlash.

    Hermoso later expressed her discomfort with the kiss, and 81 players have since declared their refusal to play for the Spanish team until Rubiales is removed from his position.

    Adding to the complexity of the situation, Rubiales’ mother has initiated a hunger strike, urging Hermoso to “tell the truth” about the incident.

    Rubiales has consistently maintained that the kiss was “consensual”, although an ongoing investigation is examining his behaviour.

    Now, fresh footage has surfaced from the Spanish team’s bus, showing Hermoso seemingly amused by social media memes arising from the kiss incident.

    She displays an image of the moment juxtaposed with a picture of Iker Casillas kissing reporter Sara Carbonero after the Spanish men’s team won the 2010 World Cup.

    Subsequently, Rubiales is captured boarding the bus, while the team appears to chant the word “beso,” which means “kiss” in Spanish.

    While Rubiales has been suspended by FIFA, he has sent the video to the organization as part of his efforts to defend himself, as reported by El Espanol.

    This ongoing saga has taken over headlines in Spain, and the response from FIFA to the video remains to be seen.