LAHORE: The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) Normalisation Committee acknowledges the unfortunate situation that has arisen due to the non-compliance of FIFA requirements regarding the amendments in the PFF Constitution by the newly-elected PFF Congress.

The Normalisation Committee remains in continuous contact with FIFA to address this matter and is actively engaging with PFF Congress members to find a resolution at the earliest. It must be kept in mind that the Haroon Malik led PFF NC was appointed by FIFA to streamline Pakistan football affairs and conduct fair and impartial elections across the country but they have not been successful in meeting the FIFA requisite and unfortunately Pakistan was suspended for yet another period of time.

Earlier, on late Thursday night in a significant development that has sent shockwaves through the Pakistani football community, FIFA, the governing body of world football, suspended the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF). This suspension comes as a result of the PFF’s failure to adhere to FIFA’s statutes and regulations.

A statement released by FIFA confirmed that the suspension will remain in place until the PFF Congress approves the constitutional amendments proposed by FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC).

These amendments are aimed at ensuring transparent and democratic elections within the PFF and bringing the federation in line with international standards. The primary reason for the suspension is the PFF’s inability to implement the necessary reforms to its constitution as mandated by FIFA.

The PFF has been criticised for a lack of transparency and democratic practices in its governance, leading to concerns about the integrity of the organization. The suspension will have far-reaching consequences for Pakistani football, as the country’s national teams will be barred from participating in international competitions. Additionally, FIFA’s financial and technical assistance to Pakistan will be suspended.

As such Pakistani football teams will be unable to participate in any FIFA-organised tournaments or qualifiers. Pakistan will lose access to FIFA’s financial assistance and development programs. The suspension will further tarnish the image of Pakistani football on the global stage.

To lift the suspension, the PFF must implement FIFA-mandated reforms. This includes amending the PFF constitution to ensure transparent and democratic elections. The PFF must hold elections in accordance with the new constitution. The PFF must also demonstrate a commitment to transparency, accountability, and fair play.

The suspension of the PFF is a major setback for Pakistani football. However, it also presents an opportunity for the federation to reform itself and build a stronger foundation for the future.

Published in The News, 8 February 2025

The News further adds:

NC chief sends resignation to FIFA

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Football Federation’s (PFF) Normalization Committee (NC) Chairman Haroon Malik has sent his resignation to the FIFA following suspension of the federation.

Well-informed sources have told ‘The News’ that the resignation was sent to the FIFA, the moment Haroon Malik was communicated about PFF’s suspension. It is not clear yet whether the FIFA will accept the resignation or would ask Haroon to continue till the PFF crises settle down.