FIFA suspends Mali FA

According to media reports, FIFA has suspended Malian Football Association (FEMAFOOT) following government interference in football matters.

The BBC reports that the world football governing body has decided to act against the Malian FA.

Reports indicate that the association has been sidelined until further notice over government interference in football matters.

FIFA acted swiftly following a move by Mali Sports Minister Housseïni Amion Guindo who dissolved the executive committee of FEMAFOOT.
Furthermore, Guindo has also appointed a provisional committee mandated to run FEMAFOOT and set up elections within 12 months.

“No team from Mali of any sort (including clubs) can take part in international competitions as of 17 March 2017 and until the suspension is lifted,” said FIFA.

“This also means that neither FEMAFOOT nor any of its members or officials may benefit from any development programme, course or training from Fifa or the Confederation of Malian Football Association

FIFA announced that the ban would be lifted only when the FEMAFOOT board and president Boubacar Baba Diarra are reinstated.