FIFA suspends Chad indefinitely over government interference

WORLD football body FIFA has banned Chad from the sport until further notice after the country’s government interfered in the running of the football federation.

FIFA acted after the minister of youth and sports dissolved the Federation of Chad Football Associations in March just before the last international break.

The Confederation of African Football had also disqualified Chad from last month’s final two rounds of qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations due to the government’s action.

In an official circular signed by FIFA Secretary General Fatouma Samoura and sent to all member associations, the global ruling body announced and explained Chad’s indefinite suspension.

“We inform you that, based on the decision taken by the Bureau of the FIFA Council on 5 April 2021, the Chadian Football Association (FTFA) has been suspended in accordance with article 16 of the FIFA Statutes until further notice. 

“Consequently, as of 5 April 2021, the FTFA loses all its membership rights, as defined in article 13 of the FIFA Statutes, with immediate effect and until further notice. FTFA representative and club teams are therefore no longer entitled to take part in international competitions until the suspension is lifted. This also means that neither the FTFA nor any of its members or officials may benefit from any development programmes, courses or training from FIFA. Moreover, we remind you and your affiliates not to enter into any sporting contact with the FTFA and/or its teams while the FTFA is suspended.”

FIFA added that the suspension could be lifted even before the next Congress in May if Chad get their football federation in order.

The world body has always frowned upon the interference of government in the administration of football.